Kinetic sculpture a revelation in the world of art, and so is abstract expressionism. This artistic movement, born in the United States in the mid-20th century, gave way to an explosive, impulsive, and groundbreaking mode of artistic expression. Its use of color, texture, and unconventional materials resulted in a free and uninhibited art like never before.
Color as a primary element in abstract expressionism
Abstract expressionists utilized color in their works as a fundamental element. Unlike previous art movements that prioritized realism, abstract expressionism aimed to convey emotion and energy through vivid hues. Colors were not limited to mere representations of real-life objects or scenarios, but rather evolved into their own entities. Jackson Pollock's "Autumn Rhythm" is a perfect example of this, with his usage of earthy colors and drops of paint creating a dynamic composition.
Techniques and methods employed by abstract expressionists
Incorporation of texture and layering
Whilst color played a primary role, texture and layering also became vital in creating an expressive piece. The process of layering paint, drips, and brush marks resulted in a rhythmic, almost musical quality to the artwork, triggering an emotional response in the viewer. Willem de Kooning's "Excavation" exemplifies this artistic technique thoroughly.
Use of unconventional tools and materials
Abstract expressionists were not afraid to experiment with various tools and materials to create their artwork. These tools' usage ranges from the use of household brooms and sticks to spread paint; Pollock's famous drip technique, which utilized sticks with his brushstrokes. Helen Frankenthaler's work, such as "Mountains and Sea," depicts the use of materials like turpentine to help the paint disperse and take on new forms.
Action painting and gestural brushstrokes
Abstract expressionism, in contrast to previous art movements, used energetic brushstrokes to create an unconfined and free feeling within the artwork. "Action painting" was a term commonly used to describe this style, predominantly employed by Pollock, Lee Krasner, and Franz Kline.
Dripping and pouring techniques
Abstract expressionists also made use of the dripping and pouring techniques to create abstract forms that may be hard to discern. Paint was often poured and dripped directly onto the canvas, which led to fascinating and intriguing textures. Mark Rothko's color fields are an excellent example of this technique.
Impact of abstract expressionism on contemporary art
Abstract expressionism's impact on contemporaneous art was enormous. This movement gave way to a new way of looking at art, which placed emphasis on abstract thought and emotion. It undoubtedly paved the way for the contemporary art movements that we see today, with artists such as Banksy, Yayoi Kusama, and Gerhard Richter taking inspiration from the movement.
Notable artists and their works in abstract expressionism
Some of the prominent artists in the abstract expressionism movement include Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Barnett Newman, and Lee Krasner. Their works, which include Pollock's "Number 1A, 1948," Rothko's "No. 61 (Rust and Blue)," and Krasner's "Siren," are iconic pieces that live on as contributions to the evolution of the world of art.In conclusion, abstract expressionism was a vivid movement that allowed artists to create artwork unrestrained by realism and traditional norms. The use of color, texture, unconventional tools, and materials led to an unprecedented form of art that revolutionized the way people think about art forever. The unique techniques born from this movement have inspired new generations of artists and have opened the doors to artistic freedom and possibilities that continue to evolve to this very day. Magnificent figurative sculptures and kinetic sculpture a revelation may have once dominated the world of art, but abstract expressionism changed the game entirely.