Abstract expressionism is an art movement that emerged in New York City in the 1940s and 1950s. It's characterized by the use of abstraction to convey strong emotions and attitudes, and is often associated with gestural brushstrokes and a sense of spontaneity.
It might be fair to say that the viciousness of World War 2 spurred these emotions. Artists were eager to break free from traditional forms of art and embrace this new wave of abstractionism.
History of Abstract Expressionism
While it all started in New York, USA in the early 1940s, the pioneers of Abstract Expressionism were the exiled European artists. The term "abstract expressionism" was first used in 1946 by art critic Robert Coates. The major flag-bearing artists for abstract paintings during that time were Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko. The movement was influenced by Surrealist artists like André Masson and Max Ernst, as well as the work of Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, and José Clemente Orozco.
Artists began exploring expression of emotions and feeling through abstract, gestural mark-making and imposing colour fields. These artists felt they could no longer continue to paint figures after the horrors of the war. They instead sought refuge in the abstract realm, encouraging meditation and introspection. These artists came to be known as the Abstract Expressionists.
Key Characteristics of Abstract Expressionism
Abstract Expressionism often touched on big ideas artists thought were important—like life and death, spirituality, power, struggle, and a range of human emotions. Here are they key characteristics of Abstract Expressionism:
- Emphasis on Emotion and Expression: Artists sought to convey raw emotions and psychological states through their work.
- Spontaneity and Gesture: The physical act of painting became an integral part of the creative process.
- Color and Form: Bold colors and abstract forms were used to create visually striking and impactful compositions.
- Subjectivity and Individuality: Each artist brought their unique perspective and style to the movement.
- Large-scale Canvases: Many Abstract Expressionist works are characterized by their large scale, allowing for expansive and dynamic compositions.
- Non-representational Imagery: These works often lack recognizable subject matter, focusing instead on abstract forms and patterns.
- Materiality and Texture: Artists experimented with various techniques to create rich textures and surfaces, such as impasto and collage.
- Process Over Product: The process of creating the artwork was often as important as the final product itself.
Types of Abstract Expressionism
There are four main types of abstract art:
Color Field Painting
Color Field painting focuses on large areas of flat color, creating a sense of immersion and tranquility. The characteristics of color field paintings include soft edges, subtle color gradations, and a sense of stillness. Mark Rothko is a prominent Color Field painter, known for his large-scale canvases with blocks of color.
Action Painting
Action Painting emphasizes the physical process of painting, with artists using energetic brushstrokes, drips, and splatters. The characteristics of action painting include dynamic, spontaneous, and often chaotic-looking compositions. Jackson Pollock is the most famous Action Painter, known for his drip paintings.
Lyrical Abstraction
Lyrical Abstraction combines elements of both Color Field and Action Painting, blending large areas of color with expressive brushwork. The characteristics of lyrical abstraction include a balance of controlled and spontaneous marks, often with a sense of movement and rhythm. Helen Frankenthaler is a key figure in Lyrical Abstraction, known for her large-scale, stain-like paintings.
Gestural Abstraction
Gestural Abstraction focuses on the expressive power of the artist's gesture, using bold, expressive brushstrokes to convey emotion. The characteristics of gestural abstraction include bold, energetic marks, often with a sense of urgency and intensity. Willem de Kooning is a well-known Gestural Abstractionist, known for his dynamic, often figurative compositions.
Major Abstract Expressionism Artists and Their Contributions
- Jackson Pollock: A leader of the Abstract Expressionist movement. Pioneered Action Painting, emphasizing spontaneous and energetic gestures.
- Mark Rothko: Developed Color Field painting, focusing on large areas of color to evoke emotion.
- Willem de Kooning: Combined abstraction with figurative elements, creating dynamic and expressive works.
- Helen Frankenthaler: Frankenthaler's "soak-stain" technique involved pouring thinned oil paint directly onto raw canvas, allowing the pigment to soak into the fabric.
- Lee Krasner: Krasner was a legend of the Abstract Expressionist movement.
- Franz Kline: Kline was known for his bold techniques and innovative use of materials.
- Elaine de Kooning: De Kooning's works consist of abstract paintings and portraits, including many of influential people like John F. Kennedy.
- Piet Mondrian: Mondrian was a pioneer of abstract art in the 20th century. He focused on simple geometric forms and primary colors to express universal beauty.
- Ad Reinhardt: Reinhardt worked mostly with monochrome squares and oblong shapes. His most famous works include the “black” paintings he created in the 1960s.
Common Themes and Techniques of Abstract Expressionism
- Free self-expression: Abstract Expressionist artists emphasized the individuality of their work, and allowed their personal experiences and inner worlds to shape their art.
- Viewer interpretation: Abstract Expressionist art is open to interpretation by the viewer.
- Chaos of the unconscious: Abstract Expressionist art can be seen as a reflection of the chaos of the unconscious.
- All-over composition: Abstract Expressionist artists often used the entire surface of their canvases, and their images often played with the edges of the canvas.
- Color field: Abstract Expressionist paintings are often composed of large planes of color.
- Rejection of traditional artistic conventions: Abstract Expressionist art rejected traditional artistic conventions.
- Symbolism and Myth: Some artists incorporated symbolic and mythological references into their work.
- Exploration of the Unconscious: Many Abstract Expressionists drew inspiration from Surrealism and the exploration of the subconscious mind.
Abstract Expressionism in Today’s World
Abstract Expressionism's influence extends far beyond its mid-20th-century origins. Its emphasis on raw emotion, spontaneous expression, and the power of color and form continues to resonate with artists today. Contemporary artists often draw inspiration from the movement's pioneers, incorporating their techniques and philosophies into their own work.
Recent exhibitions and art fairs have showcased the enduring impact of Abstract Expressionism. From large-scale installations to intimate paintings, contemporary artists are reimagining the movement's core principles for the 21st century. Whether it's through bold, gestural strokes or subtle color fields, Abstract Expressionism remains a vital force in the world of art.
Among the artists working on abstract art in recent times, Miguel Camarena is a notable figure. His collection mainly includes western art but he also has a diverse abstract art series. His paintings are present as prints-on-canvas and originals. Additionally, he is known to provide many other types of art services. Given below is his world-famous Colorful Abstract Painting.
Conclusion
Abstract Expressionism stands as a pivotal movement in art history, challenging traditional notions of representation and inspiring generations of artists. Its emphasis on individual expression, experimentation, and the power of the unconscious mind continues to resonate today.
By embracing the freedom of abstract art, viewers can develop a deeper appreciation for creativity, individuality, and the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.
How Can You Learn More About Abstract Expressionism?
To delve deeper into the world of Abstract Expressionism, you can explore these resources:
Books
- Abstract Art by Anna Moszynska
- Concerning the Spiritual in Art by Wassily Kandinsky
- Action Painting by Harold Rosenberg
Documentaries
- A New York Story (2009)
- Pollock (2000)
Museums and Art Galleries
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City
- Tate Modern in London
- The Guggenheim Museum in New York City
FAQs
How do you identify abstract expressionism?
You can characterize Abstract Expressionism by its emphasis on emotion, spontaneity, and the physical act of painting. It often involves bold colors, large canvases, and non-representational forms.
What was the focus of Abstract Expressionism?
Abstract Expressionism focused on expressing emotions and ideas through color, form, and texture, rather than depicting realistic subjects.
What is the difference between Impressionism and expressionism?
Impressionism focuses on capturing the fleeting effects of light and color in a scene, while Expressionism emphasizes emotional expression and subjective interpretation.
What are the four art styles?
While numerous art styles exist, the most prominent four include Realism, Impressionism, Abstract Expressionism, and Pop Art.
What art movement replaced Abstract Expressionism in the 1960s?
Pop Art emerged in the 1960s, challenging the introspective nature of Abstract Expressionism with bold, often commercial imagery.