Modern art

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Modern art refers to artistic works produced during the period extending roughly from the 1860s to the 1970s, and denotes the styles and philosophies of the art produced during that era. The term is usually associated with art in which the traditions of the past have been thrown aside in a spirit of experimentation. Modern artists experimented with new ways of seeing and with fresh ideas about the nature of materials and functions of art. A tendency toward abstraction is characteristic of much modern art.

History

The roots of modern art can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution, a period of rapid changes in manufacturing, transportation, and technology that began in the mid-18th century and lasted into the 19th century. This period of change was accompanied by a shift in the social, economic, and cultural conditions of life, which in turn influenced the art world.

19th Century

The late 19th century saw the emergence of several movements that are now considered precursors to modern art. These include Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Symbolism. Artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Gauguin began to challenge traditional techniques and subjects, focusing instead on personal expression and the exploration of new visual languages.

Early 20th Century

The early 20th century was a period of significant innovation in the art world. Movements such as Fauvism, Cubism, Futurism, and Expressionism emerged, each with its own unique approach to form, color, and composition. Notable artists from this period include Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, and Wassily Kandinsky.

Mid 20th Century

The mid-20th century saw the rise of Abstract Expressionism, a movement characterized by large-scale works and an emphasis on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation. Artists such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko became prominent figures in this movement. Other significant movements of this period include Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptual Art.

Characteristics

Modern art is characterized by a deliberate departure from tradition and a search for new forms of expression. Key characteristics include:

• Abstraction: Moving away from realistic representation to focus on shapes, colors, and forms.
• Experimentation: Exploring new techniques, materials, and processes.
• Individualism: Emphasizing personal expression and the artist's unique vision.
• Innovation: Breaking away from established norms and conventions.

Influential Artists

Some of the most influential artists in modern art include:

• Claude Monet
• Vincent van Gogh
• Pablo Picasso
• Henri Matisse
• Jackson Pollock
• Andy Warhol

Impact

Modern art has had a profound impact on the development of contemporary art. It has paved the way for a wide range of artistic movements and has influenced various aspects of culture, including literature, music, and architecture. The legacy of modern art continues to be felt today, as artists and audiences alike continue to explore and reinterpret its themes and techniques.

See Also

• Contemporary art
• Postmodern art
• Art movements
• Abstract art
• Avant-garde