What-is-Contemporary-Art

Understanding Contemporary Art

Definition

• Contemporary Art: Refers to art produced by artists living today, characterized by its emergence from the modern art movement and its ongoing evolution.

• Modern Art: Typically refers to artwork created between 1880 and 1960, often associated with traditional techniques and subject matter.

General Definition of Art

• Art: The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in visual forms like painting and sculpture.

Aims to evoke appreciation for beauty or emotional power.

Functions of Art

• Self-Expression: Art serves as a medium for individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and identities.

  • Example mediums: paintings, music, poetry, fashion.

• Therapeutic Aspect: Art can act as therapy, aiding emotional processing and healing.

• Aesthetic and Inspirational Roles: Art provides aesthetic pleasure and acts as a source of inspiration and motivation.

• Awareness Raising: Art can also serve as a tool for social or political awareness.

Contemporary vs Modern Art

Key Distinctions

• Contemporary Art: Constantly evolving, reflects current societal issues and employs modern techniques.

• Modern Art: Static in the sense that it relates to a specific time period (1880-1960) and traditional forms.

Historical Overview of Philippine Art Forms

• Pre-Conquest: Early art forms included pottery and body adornment.

• Spanish Period (1521-1898): Focus on religious and secular themes, reflected in painting and sculpture.

• American Period (1898-1940): Modern art begins, introduction of abstract and public art.

• Japanese Period (1941-1945): Wartime art focusing on propaganda and realism (notable artists: Amorsolo, Ocampo).

• Postwar Republic (1946-1969): Emergence of figurative and non-figurative art.

• 1970s Contemporary Painting: Diverse expressions with multimedia influences.

Major Artists and Their Contributions

• H.R. Ocampo: Notable works include "The Contrast" which reflects themes relevant to contemporary society.

• Arturo Luz: Known for hard-edged, abstract minimalist style, significant in the 1990s to the present.

Evolution and Influence in Contemporary Art

• Fluidity of Contemporary Art: The term contemporary is context-dependent and varies with societal changes.

• Victorio Edades: Recognized as the "Father of Philippine Modern Art," challenging neoclassical norms.

Characteristics of Contemporary Art

• Site-Specific Art: These pieces cannot be separated from their original locations of display or context without losing meaning.

• Process-Based: Utilizes various mediums and art forms allowing a participatory approach.

• Collaborative and Interactive: Art relies on the audience's engagement for full realization and meaning.

Conclusion

• Contemporary Art is distinct from Modern Art across historical, stylistic, and cultural aspects. It is an ongoing conversation reflecting Philippine life and culture, embodying a diverse range of techniques and expressions that engage the viewers in meaningful dialogue.