Western Visual Arts Movements and Techniques

Modernist Western Visual Arts

Late 19th/early 20th century break from traditional art focusing on individual expression and abstraction.

Key Modernist Art Movements

Impressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism.

Collage

Technique combining paper, photos, and fabric on one surface. Eg: Bottle of Vieux.

Photomontage

Collage combining photographs to create surreal images criticizing society. Eg: Fashion Show.

Mixed Media

Combining multiple materials like paint, wood, and metal. Eg: To Paint with a Twist.

Automatic Drawing

Drawing spontaneously without conscious planning to express the unconscious. Eg: Andre Masson.

Drip Painting

Dripping or pouring paint onto canvas to emphasize physical action. Eg: Convergence.

Conventional Western Visual Arts

Influenced by classical traditions, emphasizing realism, harmony, balance, and beauty.

Chiaroscuro

Strong contrast between light and shadow for 3D illusion. Eg: Girl with a Pearl.

Sfumato

Soft blending of colors and tones for smooth edges. Eg: Mona Lisa.

Linear Perspective

Creates depth and distance on a flat surface. Eg: The School of Athens.

Anatomical Accuracy

Showing the human body realistically and proportionally. Eg: The Last Judgement.