Contemporary Art: An Introduction
Contemporary art refers to art made in the present time period, ranging from the 1960s up to the current day. It is a highly diverse and multi-faceted field that encompasses a wide range of styles, materials, and techniques. Contemporary art is known for its emphasis on conceptual thinking and intellectualism, as well as its experimentation with new forms and materials. Within contemporary art, two major styles emerged in the 1960s: Minimalism and Pop Art. Both of these movements had a significant impact on the development of contemporary art and continue to influence artists today.The Emergence of Minimalism in Contemporary Art
Minimalism was a reaction against the emotionally charged Abstract Expressionism movement that dominated the art world in the 1950s. It emphasized the idea that art did not need to be a representation of anything other than itself, focusing instead on the purity of form and the relationship between the artwork and the viewer. Minimalism was characterized by a reduction of form and color, the use of industrial materials, and a simplified visual language. Artists working in this style sought to create works that were free from personal interpretation or emotion, instead focusing on the physical and visual qualities of the artwork itself.Defining Minimalist Art: Characteristics and Examples
Some key characteristics of Minimalist art include:- Geometric forms
- Monochromatic color palettes
- Use of industrial materials such as steel and concrete
- Repetition of forms