The Evolution of Abstract Expressionism: From Pollock to Kandinsky

Abstract Expressionism, a revolutionary art movement that emerged in the 1940s, transformed the way artists created and perceived art. This movement, which originated in the United States, was characterized by its emphasis on the process of creating art rather than the final product. In this summary, we will explore the evolution of Abstract Expressionism, from its early beginnings to its impact on the art world.

According to a blog post by Twist Gallery, "The term 'Abstract Expressionism' was first used by art critic Robert Coates in 1946 to describe the work of artists like Pollock and Rothko. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that the movement gained momentum, with artists like Willem de Kooning, Franz Kline, and Barnett Newman creating works that were characterized by their use of gestural brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and abstract forms." [1]

The Genesis of Expressionism

The roots of Expressionism can be traced back to the German avant-garde movement that developed in the early 20th century as a reaction against Impressionism and realist art. The first Expressionists wanted to push the bounds of how to physically emulate the complexity of human emotions. In 1905, Ernest Ludwig Kirchner led a group of four German students in founding Die Brücke in Dresden. Six years later, Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) burst onto the scene in Munich with members Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc, and others. [2]

The groups' push to explore the anxious emotions associated with their dissatisfaction with reality was innately tied to the period of German history from 1910 to 1925. On the brink of World War I, Germany suffered from rapid industrialization's massive impact on rural life and traditional values. Artists from the Die Brücke group, such as Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, sought to alienate themselves from the materialistic reality of the modern world. They employed abstract forms to bridge the past and present, creating a new artistic language.

The Rise of Abstract Expressionism

In the late 1930s, as World War II loomed, many European artists who practiced Surrealism migrated to the United States. These artists, including André Breton and Max Ernst, brought with them their ideas about the subconscious and the world of dreams. They influenced American artists, such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko, who were already experimenting with new techniques and styles.

The war precipitated a moral crisis, prompting artists to grapple with themes of existential angst, human suffering, and the search for meaning in a fractured world. Abstract Expressionists paired Surrealism's aim at exploring the subconscious mind through art with the post-war lessons of humanity's irrationality and anxiety.

Action Painting

One of the key styles that emerged during this period was Action Painting, characterized by random, loose, rapid, and sometimes forceful handling of paint by brushstroke or techniques partially controlled by chance, such as dripping or spilling paint onto the canvas. This style was most commonly used by painters like Pollock, Kline, and de Kooning.

For example, Pollock's "Mural on Indian Red Ground" (1950) is a classic example of Action Painting. The painting features a web-like structure of lines and colors that seem to dance across the canvas. Pollock's use of dripping and splashing paint created a sense of spontaneity and energy, which was a hallmark of Action Painting.

Abstract Impressionism

Another style that emerged during this period was Abstract Impressionism, which can be seen as a middle ground between imitation and expressionism. This style is characterized by more structured compositions, but still features abstract shapes and techniques. Artists like Philip Guston, Helen Frankenthaler, Robert Motherwell, and Adolph Gottlieb popularized this style.

For instance, Guston's "The Studio" (1969) is a prime example of Abstract Impressionism. The painting features a bold, geometric composition with vibrant colors and abstract shapes. Guston's use of bold brushstrokes and vivid colors created a sense of tension and energy, which was characteristic of Abstract Impressionism.

Color Field Painting

Color Field Painting, another style that emerged during this period, is characterized by large, flat areas of color that dominate the composition. Artists like Rothko, Newman, and Clyfford Still popularized this style.

For example, Rothko's "No. 61 (Rust and Blue)" (1953) is a classic example of Color Field Painting. The painting features two large, rectangular fields of color that seem to hover on the canvas. Rothko's use of subtle color gradations and rectangular forms created a sense of depth and emotion, which was a hallmark of Color Field Painting.

The Impact of Abstract Expressionism

Abstract Expressionism had a profound impact on the art world. It challenged traditional notions of art and paved the way for future art movements, such as Pop Art and Minimalism. The movement also influenced artists outside of the United States, such as the French artist Jean Dubuffet, who was inspired by the spontaneity and energy of Action Painting.

In addition, Abstract Expressionism played a significant role in the development of modern art. It emphasized the importance of the creative process and the artist's inner world, rather than the external world. This focus on the artist's inner world led to the development of new techniques and styles, such as the use of gestural brushstrokes and vibrant colors.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Each of the artists discussed above, as well as countless other members of the abstract expressionist movement, can be found in art museums across the globe. Despite the decades that have passed since the peak of the movement, the large-scale and frenetic energy of the works continues to reverberate, with modern audiences still grappling with the severity of the human condition.

The emphasis on automatism, or creating artwork without any conscious intention, in Abstract Expression is reflected in the work of contemporary artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and George Condo. Condo's early work "American Cancer" from 1981 demonstrates his mastery of vibrant expressionism. The acrylic on canvas has a saturated color palette and feverish brushwork that captures the sensation of American life as he knew it, all evident in this electric composition.

The cultural love for Expressionist paintings is steadfast. The philosophical meaning imbued in Expressionist art allows for a continued reinterpretation, including its impact on subsequent art movements and relevance to contemporary art practices. Through exhibitions, publications, and academic discourses, scholars continue the conversation of Abstract Expressionism alive, ensuring its significance remains prominent in the canon of art history.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Abstract Expressionism was a revolutionary art movement that transformed the way artists created and perceived art. From its early beginnings in the 1940s to its impact on the art world, Abstract Expressionism emphasized the importance of the creative process and the artist's inner world. The movement's emphasis on spontaneity, energy, and abstraction paved the way for future art movements and influenced artists around the world.

As we continue to explore the world of art, we must remember the significance of Abstract Expressionism and its impact on modern art. We must also recognize the importance of the creative process and the artist's inner world, as they continue to shape the art world today.

At Qwillery, we believe that art is a powerful tool for self-expression and communication. We hope that this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of Abstract Expressionism and its significance in the art world. We encourage you to continue exploring the world of art and to discover new and exciting artists and styles.

References:

[1] Twist Gallery. (2020, January 17). A Brief History of Abstract Expressionism. Retrieved from https://www.twistgallery.ca/blog/2020/1/17/a-brief-history-of-abstract-expressionism

[2] Rau Antiques. (n.d.). The Expressionism Art Movement Explained. Retrieved from https://rauantiques.com/blogs/canvases-carats-and-curiosities/the-expressionism-art-movement-explained

Note: The references provided are the sources of the notes used in this blog post. They are not intended to be a comprehensive list of sources on the topic of Abstract Expressionism.