Abstract Expressionism Overview and Key Concepts

  • Abstract Expressionism (AbEx) is an important art movement after WWII.

  • It made New York City the new center for artistic innovation, moving from Paris.

  • Focuses on emotional expression through abstract art.

  • Emphasizes the artist's feelings over subject matter.

Key Artists and Influences

  • Key figures:

    • Jackson Pollock: Known for pouring and dripping paint, called "Jack the Dripper."

    • Robert Motherwell, Clyfford Still, Ad Reinhardt: Influenced by Western philosophies like Marxism and Existentialism.

  • Important art critics: Clement Greenberg and Harold Rosenberg promoted AbEx.

  • Influences from Native American art and Asian calligraphy.

The Concept of the New York School

  • "New York School" refers to a collective of Abstract Expressionism artists in late 1940s-early 1950s.

  • They collaborated and supported each other.

  • Often gathered at Cedar Tavern for discussions.

  • Peggy Guggenheim financed and promoted these artists.

Art Characteristics and Styles

  • AbEx artists work on a large scale, often without traditional composition.

  • Focus on non-objective imagery and personal expression.

  • Key styles:

    1. Action Painting:

    • Vigorous strokes and dynamic techniques.

    • Pollock’s drip paintings show energy and spontaneity.

    • Canvas as an action arena.

    1. Color Field Painting:

    • Large areas of a single color.

    • Aimed at provoking deep thought.

    • Mark Rothko used layers for luminous experiences.

Conclusion and Legacy

  • Reaction to consumerism and mass media of the 1960s.

  • Led to the rise of Pop Art.

  • Despite its decline, AbEx influenced modern art significantly.

  • Continues to inspire discussions on interpretation and emotion.