Abstract Expressionism is often referred to as the “most powerful original movement in the history of American art” , which dominated American painting from the end of World War II. In examining its styles and themes, this essay is going to illustrate why the movement is deemed a modern and American art practice. Consindering paintings of Jackson Pollock (1912-1956), Willem de Kooning (1904-1997), Mark Rothko (1903-1970) and Barnett Newman (1905-1970), specific attention will be drawn to issues of race and gender.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Abstract Expressionism with regard to issues of race and gender
- The Sublime is Now
- European vs. American Art
- The “New York School”
- Abstract Expressionism: A “New” Style
- Jackson Pollock
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay aims to explore the significance of Abstract Expressionism as a pivotal movement in American art, emphasizing its unique qualities and examining how the movement addressed issues of race and gender. It will analyze the work of key figures like Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko, and Barnett Newman. Key themes examined include:- The concept of the sublime and its relevance to Abstract Expressionism
- The role of European influences in shaping American art
- The interplay of individual expression and shared artistic themes
- The evolution of artistic techniques and styles within Abstract Expressionism
- The social and cultural context of Abstract Expressionism in post-World War II America
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The essay begins by outlining the context of Abstract Expressionism as a dominant force in American art after World War II. It highlights the significance of Barnett Newman's essay, "The Sublime is Now," and its connection to the movement's philosophical underpinnings. The essay further examines the relationship between American art and its European counterparts, highlighting both the influences and the desire to establish a distinct American artistic identity. The author discusses the ambivalent attitudes of American artists toward Europe, particularly evident in the work of Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning. The essay then focuses on the core elements of Abstract Expressionism, categorizing artists into "action painters" (like Pollock and de Kooning) and "color field" artists (like Rothko and Newman). The author explores the commonalities and distinctions between these styles, including the emphasis on expressing the inner self and the rejection of traditional compositional structures. Lastly, the essay delves into the specific work of Jackson Pollock, analyzing his painting "Out of the Web" and highlighting the unique techniques and themes that characterize his artistic style.Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key concepts and terms central to this essay are Abstract Expressionism, the sublime, American art, European influences, action painting, color field painting, individual expression, artistic techniques, and social context. These concepts are explored through the examination of prominent artists such as Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko, and Barnett Newman. The essay provides a framework for understanding the complex interplay between artistic innovation and cultural context in the development of American art.
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- Sandra Kuberski (Author), 2012, Men Only. Abstract Expressionism with regard to issues of race and gender, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/286016
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