Abstract expressionism
The abstract expressionism art movement was mostly based in New York City and was
also know as the New York School. This was never a formal association, but they all had
similar ideas. This group includes Jackson Pollock (1912–1956), Willem de Kooning
(1904–1997), Franz Kline (1910–1962), Lee Krasner (1908–1984), Robert
Motherwell (1915–1991), William Baziotes (1912–1963), Mark Rothko (1903–1970),
Barnett Newman (1905–1970), Adolph Gottlieb (1903–1974), Richard Pousette-
Dart (1916–1992), and Clyfford Still (1904–1980). These artists believed in expressing
themselves through abstract art. There are two main varieties of this style: action painters
and colour-field painters. Action painters often used large brushes to make sweeping
gestural marks, while colour field painters were deeply interested in religion and myth
and created simple compositions with large areas of colour intended to produce a
contemplative or meditational response in the viewer. They took inspiration from ancient
art techniques and adapted them to form a new style. This movement started after World
War 2, in a time of uncertainty, so they expressed their concerns through art.
.
This is a very abstract piece of art by Jackson Pollock in the style of action colours. It
uses a very limited colour palette and is made by using gestural brushstroke and dripping
paint onto the canvas. This piece sent waves of controversy upon the world ushering in a
new era of art that would be popular for the next two decades before its simplicity became
too much and artists turned to other ideas. This painting looks like a mess on the canvas
and a very cheap way to attempt to become famous, however with closer examination, you
can make out distinct shapes and truly admire this brave piece of art, heavily criticised,
but also admired art piece. This is a splendid form of abstract art that paved the way for
generations to come.
This is a painting in the style of colour field
painters, who, as the name suggest, had main
areas of one colour. It has simpler forms and
subtler colour harmonies. This is different
from regular abstract expression as it removes
the emotional or mythic content of the previous
styles and the highly personal application off
it. It was popularised by many artists, such
as Mark Rothko, the creator of this
masterpiece. It is very simple, but also
contemplative, making you think about the
meaning or message behind this work. This inspired many and inspired people across the
world to follow his example and create similar pieces, helping shape the art that we do
today.
In conclusion, the abstract expressionism was a unique way of people expressing
themselves without using words and sparking controversy with a simplistic idea. This
should be celebrated more and more people should be told about this and its impact. This
style was truly revolutionary and ought to get the respect it deserves.