Amédée Ozenfant (1886–1966) was a French painter and theorist known for co-founding Purism, an art movement that sought to bring order and clarity to modern painting.

While he is not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, he created several influential works.

Here are 15 notable paintings by Ozenfant:

Here are more in-depth descriptions of 15 notable paintings by Amédée Ozenfant, elaborating on their composition, artistic philosophy, and significance.

1. Le Pichet Blanc (The White Pitcher)

This painting epitomizes Ozenfant’s Purist style, featuring a stark white pitcher against a muted background. The carefully balanced composition highlights the interplay between light and shadow, emphasizing the vessel’s cylindrical shape and smooth texture.

The simplicity of the subject matter conveys a sense of harmony and precision, reinforcing Purism’s focus on order and clarity.

2. Nature Morte (Still Life)

A quintessential still life in which everyday objects, such as bottles, glasses, and containers, are arranged with mathematical precision.

The restrained color palette and smooth, well-defined forms reflect Ozenfant’s belief that art should mirror the functional beauty of industrial design. The objects appear timeless and idealized, as though purified from the distractions of unnecessary detail.

3.Nature morte au verre de vin rouge (Still Life with Glass of Red Wine)

Ozenfant explores the contrast between solid and transparent materials by positioning a glass bottle alongside a drinking glass.

The careful rendering of reflections and refractions demonstrates his mastery of tonal variation. The painting exemplifies Purism’s insistence on depicting objects in their most refined, essential forms.

4. Le Verre (The Glass)

A single glass, stripped of decorative elements, is the sole focus of this composition. Through subtle shading and controlled lighting, Ozenfant transforms an everyday object into an icon of simplicity and modernist elegance. The painting emphasizes materiality, light interaction, and the purity of form.

5. Guitare et Bouteille (Guitar and Bottle)

This still life juxtaposes a musical instrument with a bottle, bridging the worlds of art and industry. Ozenfant’s approach to composition eliminates unnecessary embellishment, emphasizing the underlying geometric structure of each object.

The painting conveys a quiet, harmonious atmosphere, underscoring the Purist movement’s emphasis on clarity and functionality.

6. Nature Morte au Livre (Still Life with Book)

A book is included among the carefully arranged objects, introducing an element of intellectual symbolism. The painting conveys the idea that literature, like design, follows principles of order and structure.

The choice of a book as a subject suggests a reverence for knowledge and balance in both artistic and intellectual pursuits.

7. Maternity

Maternity by Amédée Ozenfant is a striking example of the Purist movement, which he co-founded alongside Le Corbusier.

The painting embodies Ozenfant’s signature approach—clean, geometric forms, a restrained color palette, and a deep sense of balance and order.

The composition likely presents the theme of motherhood through a modernist lens, reducing the human form to essential shapes and harmonious proportions.

The use of soft yet structured curves might suggest nurturing and protection, while the interplay of light and shadow enhances the sense of depth and purity.

By stripping away unnecessary detail, Ozenfant conveys the universality of maternity, aligning it with his belief in simplicity and clarity as the foundations of aesthetic beauty.

Through Maternity, Ozenfant transforms an intimate, timeless subject into an expression of modern harmony, highlighting the intersection of human experience and artistic idealism.

The painting stands as a testament to his Purist vision—where form and function merge seamlessly to evoke emotion and meaning.

8. Adam at Eve

“Adam at Eve” by Amédée Ozenfant is a refined exploration of form, balance, and purity, reflecting the core principles of the Purist movement.

9.Pacifique III

“Pacifique III” is a striking representation of Ozenfant’s dedication to form, structure, and harmony. The painting likely features a composition dominated by simplified geometric shape, carefully arranged to evoke a feeling of stability and balance

10. Nature Morte Puriste (Purist Still Life)

This painting serves as a manifesto of Purism, featuring an assortment of bottles, glasses, and pitchers arranged in an orderly manner.

The objects are depicted with smooth surfaces and well-defined contours, stripped of decorative excess. The emphasis on geometric precision and clean lines reflects Ozenfant’s commitment to the ideals of modernity and simplicity.

11. Le Vase (The Vase)

A single vase dominates the canvas, its elegant shape highlighted through careful attention to light and shadow.

Ozenfant’s focus on essential forms makes the vase appear timeless, as though it were a mass-produced yet perfectly designed object.

The restrained color palette reinforces the painting’s sense of clarity and sophistication.

12. Nature Morte à la Carafe (Still Life with Carafe)

A carafe is placed among other domestic items, emphasizing its transparency and curvature. Ozenfant carefully studies how light interacts with the glass surface, demonstrating his mastery of rendering different materials. The painting captures a moment of stillness, with each object carefully positioned to achieve visual balance.

13. Duplicate

This work embodies the principles of Purism through an arrangement of objects that adhere to strict geometric proportions. The smooth, polished surfaces and calculated spacing between objects convey a sense of order and clarity. Ozenfant’s controlled use of color and shading enhances the sense of depth and material realism.

14. Composition Purist

This artwork demonstrates Ozenfant’s focus on presenting objects clearly, emphasizing their essential form and function.

15. Sisteron

Ozenfant created the notable painting “Sisteron” in 1928. It showcases his characteristic style, emphasizing clarity and precision.

Conclusion

Ozenfant’s paintings are a testament to the Purist movement’s principles, emphasizing clarity, order, and the beauty of everyday objects. By stripping away unnecessary details and focusing on form, light, and structure, he sought to create art that was both intellectually rigorous and visually harmonious. His work influenced modern design, architecture, and art theory, leaving a lasting impact on 20th-century aesthetics.

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Frost’s artistic career was not a conventional one.

After serving in  World War II, he began his formal art education at the Camber well school of Arts from 1947 to 1950.

Terry Frost’s first international solo show was in 1961 at Bertha Schaffer Gallery  Newyork.

He had retrospectives at the Mayor Gallery, London(1990) and the Royal Academy Of arts(2000).

His early works were influenced by a variety of styles, including the likes of Cubism and Constructivism.

However, it was his move to Cornwall in the late 1940s that proved to be a pivotal moment in his artistic development.

The rugged landscapes and brilliant seascapes of Cornwall served as a wellspring of inspiration for Frost.

The play of light and color in this coastal region found its way into his art, infusing his works with a sense of vitality and movement.

Frost’s compositions often featured bold geometric shapes, rhythmic patterns, and a rich palette of colorsthat reflected the artist’s deep connection to his surroundings.

Terry Frost’s Artistic Style

One of Frost’s distinctive contributions to abstract art was his adept use of color.

His works pulsate with hues that seem to dance across the canvas, creating a visual symphony that is both harmonious and invigorating.

Whether it be his iconic “Sun Trap” series or his later “Quayside” paintings, Frost’s mastery of color remains a hallmark of his artistic legacy.

Throughout his career, Frost experimented with various techniques and mediums, including painting, printmaking, and collage.

His innovative approach to composition and form pushed the boundaries of abstract art, earning him widespread acclaim both in the UK and internationally.

Terry Frost’s legacy continues to inspire contemporary artists and art enthusiasts alike.

His bold and expressive works serve as a testament to the power of color and form in conveying emotion and energy.

As we reflect on his contributions to the world of art, we are reminded of Frost’s enduring influence and his unwavering commitment to exploring the boundless possibilities of abstraction.

Exploring Terry Frost’s 10 Famous Works

1.Green,Black And White Movement

Terry Frost’s “Green, Black and White Movement” is a striking abstract composition that exemplifies his mastery of color, form, and rhythm.

The painting features bold geometric shapes, primarily in green, black, and white, arranged in a dynamic interplay that suggests movement and energy.

Reflecting Frost’s interest in abstraction and his engagement with Constructivist influences, this work captures a sense of motion and harmony through its carefully structured yet expressive design.

2.Red, Black, and White Composition (1954)

3.Yellow Triptych(1959)

Terry Frost’s Yellow Diptych is a vibrant abstract composition that showcases his signature use of bold colorsand geometric forms.

As a diptych, the artwork consists of two panels that interact dynamically, emphasizing balance and contrast.

The dominant yellow hue radiates warmth and energy, while complementary colors—often including black,white, red, and blue—create rhythm and movement.

Frost’s characteristic semicircles, arcs, and overlapping shapes contribute to the composition’s lively yet structured aesthetic.

4.Red,Blue,Orange On Yellow(1969)

Terry Frost’s Red, Blue, Orange on Yellow is a vibrant abstract composition that illustrate his bold use of color and geometric forms.

The contrast between the warm vibrancy of orange and the cooler depth of green enhances the composition’s expressive impact.

This work reflects Frost’s exploration of color relationships and his ability to create harmony through abstraction.

The painting features a dominant yellow background, which serves as a luminous field for the striking interplay of red, blue, and orange shapes.

Frost employs curved, overlapping, and rhythmic forms that create a dynamic sense of movement and balance.

This work captures the warmth and vitality often present in Frost’s art, evoking a sense of joy and spontaneity.

5.Green And Orange(1970)

Terry Frost’s Green and Orange is an abstract composition that highlights his signature use of bold ,contrasting colors and rhythmic geometric forms.

The interchange between green and orange creates a dynamic visual tension, with curved and structured shapes suggesting movement and balance.

Frost’s characteristic use of arcs, semicircles, and overlapping forms gives the piece a sense of energy and fluidity.

The difference between the warm vibrancy of orange and the cooler depth of green enhances the composition’s expressive impact.

6.Ice Blue(1972)

Terry Frost’s Ice Blue is an abstract composition that explores the interplay of cool tones and geometric forms.

The artwork prominently features shades of blue, evoking a sense of calmness and fluidity, possibly inspired by reflections of light on water or icy landscapes.

The contrast between lighter and darker blues, often complemented by white or other accent colors, enhances the depth and spatial harmony of the piece.

Ice Blue exemplifies Frost’s mastery of abstraction, where color and form work together to convey emotion and energy.

7.Life-Is-Just-A-Bowl-Of-Cherries

Terry Frost’s Life is Just a Bowl of Cherries is a vibrant and playful abstract composition that embodies his love for color, rhythm, and movement.

The title, referencing the popular phrase and song, suggests a lighthearted and optimistic tone, which is reflected in the bright and energetic color palette.

Frost’s use of repetition and variation creates a sense of musicality, making the piece feel lively and expressive.

This work epitomize his ability to translate joy and spontaneity into abstract visual language.

8.Tree,Tree(1989)

9.Orchard Tambourine B Complete Portfolio(2002)

A portfolio of 25 colour woodcuts.

Each print signed and dated by the artist on the reverse.

Each print is also numbered 1 to 25 to indicate the order of the set

 10.Blue and Lemon

“Blue and Lemon” features a spectrum of colors between the shades, with two half-circles marking the spectrum’s  end points-a signature of Frost’s  simple yet classic style.

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Famous Jackson Pollock Paintings

Abstract Expressionism achieves this by letting the medium and composition communicate for itself. Artists like Pollock believed that it was the viewer (and not the artist) who defines and interpret the meaning of the abstract expressionist artwork thus, there is no relevance on what artist thinks or conveys while producing the work

Read What is Abstract Expressionism?

Gestural abstraction is clearly evident in Pollock’s works which feature vigorous and spontaneous movement through seemingly chaotic marks. The works were created with intention, but the effect is that of random impulse. Pollock let his moods determine the colour and the direction and location of paint that he splattered on a canvas on the ground. It may looks as though he merely stepped back and threw paint at the canvas, but every movement of the can or brush was done with purpose.

While it remains challenging to enlist the most famous Jackson Pollock paintings, we’ve chosen the widely appreciated ones. Have a look

Convergence

Convergence is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1952. This represents earlier works of abstract expressionism and considered as one of the best bravest action paintings. This painting can be viewed at Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, New York.

One: Number 31, 1950

One: Number 31, 1950 is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1950. In the summer and autumn of 1950, the artist produced three wall size paintings which included this one too. The dimension of this painting are 269.5 x 530.8 cm. This is one of the most famous Jackson Pollock paintings.

Shimmering Substance

Shimmering Substance is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1946. This painting is Jackson Pollock’s first completely non-representational works of the abstract art. The dimension of this painting are 76.3 x 61.6 cm.

Mural on Indian Red Ground

Mural on Indian Red Ground is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1950. This painting is valued at about $250 million and is considered one of Pollock’s greatest works. This painting can be viewed at Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, Tehran.

No. 5, 1948

No. 5, 1948 is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1948. The artist was known for his contributions to the abstract expressionist movement. The dimension of this painting are 2.4 m × 1.2 m.

Number 1 (Lavender Mist)

Number 1 (Lavender Mist) is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1950. In this painting, the artist used drip painting technique. This painting can be viewed at National Gallery of Art East Building.

Number 11, 1952

Number 11, 1952 is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock. This painting is also known by the name as Blue poles. It was Pollock choice not to assign names to his works, but rather numbers. This painting can be viewed at National Gallery of Australia, Canberra.

The Deep

The Deep is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1953. Many interpretation of this paintings means deep and profound void or hole, a viscous cut or dying man, hence the name The Deep. This painting can be viewed at Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris, France.

Autumn Rhythm

Autumn Rhythm is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1950. The original title given to this painting was Number 30 but it was changed later. The dimension of this painting are 266.7 x 525.8 cm.

The She-Wolf

The She-Wolf is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1943. This painting was featured in Pollock’s first solo exhibition at an Art of This Century gallery in New York in 1943. The dimension of this painting is 106.4 x 170.2 cm.

Number 1A, 1948

Number 1A, 1948 is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1948. Jackson’s wife commented on numbering paintings “Numbers are neutral. They make people look at a painting for what it is—pure painting”. The dimension of this painting is 172.7 x 264.2 cm.

Stenographic Figure

Stenographic Figure is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1942. This painting style is bright and airy which reflect perhaps the artist new relationship with painter Lee Krasner. The dimension of this painting is 101.6 x 142.2 cm.

Easter and the Totem

Easter and the Totem is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1953. The totemic forms at the left and right in this painting reflect his renewed interest in using a brush to paint quasi-figurative images. The dimension of this painting are 208.6 x 147.3 cm.

Summertime: Number 9A

Summertime: Number 9A is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1948. The rhythms in this painting reflect his belief that ‘The modern artist is working and expressing an inner world. The dimension of this painting is 848 x 5550 mm.

Ocean Greyness

One of the many famous Jackson Pollock paintings is – Ocean Greyness. It is a painting produced by Jackson Pollock in 1953. Vogue magazine published fashion photographs by Cecil Beaton of models posing in front of Pollock’s drip paintings in 1951. The dimension of this painting is 146.7 x 229 cm.

Regardless of the critic’s viewpoints on that subject, irrespective of the rational definitions of art, the Abstract Expressionists achieved Tolstoy’s ideal and went beyond it to an extent where it helped the viewers to explore thought-provoking ideas about religion, time, space, popular culture, and more.

Jackson Pollock delivers!

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Personal, Psychological, and Emotional Depth

Distinctive Visual Language

Frida’s Feministic Icon

Cultural and Political Engagement

Modern Relevance

Commercial Appeal

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What Is Abstract Expressionism?

Abstract Expressionism is an artistic movement of the mid-20th century comprising diverse styles and techniques and emphasizing especially an artist’s liberty to convey attitudes and emotions through nontraditional and usually nonrepresentational means.

As per MOMA  – Abstract Expressionism is a term applied to a movement in American painting that flourished in New York City after World War II, sometimes referred to as the New York School or, more narrowly, as action painting.

The “New York School”, a group of artists including Jackson Pollock, Lee Krasner, and Willem de Kooning, found the movement with a basis on the value of spontaneous movement and expression. Every one of them was talented and expert in traditional and classical styles of execution. Convergence is one of the initial art pieces of abstract expressionism and considered as the bravest action paintings made by Pollock.

Famous paintings of Jackson Pollock

Abstract expressionist value expression over perfection, vitality over finish, fluctuation over repose, the unknown over the known, the veiled over the clear, the individual over society and the inner over the outer
— William C. Seitz, American artist and Art historian

The major participants in this movement are roughly divided into two groups: Gestural Abstraction and Colour Field.

a) Gestural Abstraction

Gestural abstraction is clearly evident in Pollock’s and de Kooning’s works which feature vigorous and spontaneous movement through seemingly chaotic marks. The works were created with intention, but the effect is that of random impulse. Pollock let his moods determine the colour and the direction and location of paint that he splattered on a canvas on the ground. It may looks as though he merely stepped back and threw paint at the canvas, but every movement of the can or brush was done with purpose.

b) Color Field

Color Field painters like Mark Rothko and Clyfford Still literally painted fields of colour onto the canvas. Again, though the effect seems simple, the colours in these works observed by an acute audience are made up of several hues that gave them depth and candor to the work.

Beginnings of Abstract Expressionism

The end of WWII had to vary after-effects in the psyche of the American public. The years before the war had been fraught with economic depression. Soldiers returning home from the war had seen horrible destruction, genocide, and atrocities they couldn’t bear to discuss or to contemplate. Women who had been in the workforce and had grown independent and self-sufficient were again donning the mantle of domesticity. The country was putting on a brave face while privately suffering an undercurrent of an identity crisis.

In integrated cultural areas like New York where free thought and intellectualism had always flourished, artists, poets, and other freethinkers were becoming paranoid. The government was increasingly more anti-communistic and society was becoming more homogenized. The artists needed an outlet – A creative outlet to express freely!

Abstract Expressionism provided a way for artists of all types to deliver feelings and ideas without the worry of public scrutiny of those thoughts. Of course, the public was reticent to accept their works as art, but that did not impede the movement’s freedom of expression.

Forward thinking and powerful collectors like Peggy Guggenheim gave the movement a wider audience and legitimacy so that the movement could grow and evolve into what it is today. Because of careful curation and a respect for the founding artists of the movement, we are still able to enjoy these works.

Features of Abstract Expressionism

Large Scaled Works

Paintings are typically large except in the case of heroic figures of the 18^th and 19^th Abstract Expressionism and is typically completed on very large canvases or is comprised of multiple canvases meant to be one work.

Artist’s perspective

The movement is not characterized by any one specific style, but strong messages and emotions are paramount to the representation. In any Abstract Expressionist work, it is either the feeling of the artist or of the viewer is in the center stage – not the image itself.

Inspired by Surrealism

Abstract Expressionism takes from Surrealism and delivers the idea that art should be created by spontaneous and subconscious creation. Rather than planning out, sketching, and rendering a piece, the artist follows the flow of feeling and the openness of his mind to create.

Motivation

The era in which the movement began had put a strain on society, especially that of free thinkers, that was stifling and limiting. Abstract Expressionism gave artists an outlet for their pent-up thoughts and feelings.

Diversity of Colour

Because Abstract Expressionism had no intention of rendering an image of something tangible, experimentation with colour took on a cerebral element. The artists became interested in how color affected mood and thought.

Conclusion

Regardless of the critic’s viewpoints on that subject, irrespective of the rational definitions of art, the Abstract Expressionists achieved Tolstoy’s ideal and went beyond it to an extent where it helped the viewers to explore thought-provoking ideas about religion, time, space, popular culture, and more.

Abstract Expressionism delivers!

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The post What Is Abstract Expressionism? – Expression and Vitality Over Perfection appeared first on The Artist.

In later years, visitors to his home and studio were surprised to find a mild-mannered gentleman in spectacles and a well-tailored suit. The maniac he was labeled as had never existed, but perhaps it was his creative intensity that was mistakenly perceived as insanity. The challenge, then, was to utilize this passion as a means to achieve the serenity he really wanted out of life.

It’s been said that from the moment he held a box of colors in his hand, Matisse knew he was destined to be an artist. After his first attempt at copying a lithograph, he wasted no time in enrolling at a local art academy. However, his insatiable creative appetite would not allow him to stop there – after a long and arduous battle with his father, Henri Matisse arrived in Paris in October, 1891.

Taming the Beast

After years of struggling to find his authentic voice as a painter, Matisse finally experienced a breakthrough with his 1905 portrait of Amelie.

Depicted in a soft pink dress rendered with blocks of lavender and sienna, the subject’s face and clothing also contained strokes of green in contrast to these warm tones. Rather than an accurate representation of Amelie’s face, or a metaphorical statement suggesting some kind of jealousy in her expression, the artist’s use of an inaccurate color was an attempt at utilizing the complementary relationship of red and green. As opposites on the color wheel, the two pigments produce a jarring contrast when placed next to each other in a composition.

There are always flowers for those who want to see them.

Matisse was fascinated by this interaction of color  and saw the opportunity to achieve a new kind of harmony in his work.

Unfortunately, his audience failed to see the genius in this unconventional innovation. At the Salon d’Automne that year, the portrait was placed next to an academic sculpture that had been dubbed “a Donatello among the wild beasts”, scornfully dismissing the early Impressionist’s freedom of color and its application on the canvas.

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Like wildfire, the comment spread, and reviews soon depicted Matisse as a talentless brute attempting to negate the understood artistic conventions of his time. He began to despair, sure that he had made a mistake in his attempt to capture harmony through contrasting colors. But through the saving grace of daring collectors and the support of other avant-garde artists, Matisse was able to push through these feelings of doubt and continue growing as a painter.

In one of his most famous works, titled “The Dance”, Henri drew on the memory of Catalan fisherman he had once seen dancing on the Mediterranean coast.

The bright red figures holding hands, twirling and swaying against a sharp blue-green horizon in the background. The simplicity of its composition and the five sinewy bodies in motion captures a primal energy, the colors pulsing against one another.

Critics called his painting bestial and primitive, and its commissioner nearly backed out of the deal.

Some hundred years later, “The Dance” is one of Matisse’s most recognizable works. He is now regarded as one of art history’s most influential pioneers of Modernism and a pivotal member of the Impressionist movement in painting.

His dedication to the free use of color and the refusal to adhere to his time period’s artistic conventions immortalize Henri Matisse not as an untamed beast, but the unsung hero of any creative soul who’s been told their work is too different to be good.

Sacred Profanity and the Eternal Flame

Henri Matisse is one of many solar flares in the narrative of art history who was underappreciated for his entire life.

Who knows how many creative careers have been cut short, due to the difference of opinion that places value on the work of some artists and condemns the attempts of others. In such cases, it is only the passion of the artist that makes his or her creative process worth such trouble.

Toward the end of his life, Matisse longed to create something monumental that would serve as his legacy. He was profoundly disappointed when nobody asked him to design a state building or museum, as was his dream.

When the opportunity arose to create the Rosaria Chapel, Matisse wasted no time in accepting the commission. This was to the surprise of his friends, who knew him as a steadfast atheist.

A baffled Pablo Picasso inquired, “Why not paint a brothel, Matisse?” To which the artist replied, “No one asked me to.”

Read about the origins of Fauvism and Expressionism

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Courbet challenged the Romanticism concept of most of the famous artists of his time. He stayed strong to his beliefs, which was painting only what the eyes could see. The Cubists and Impressionists were some of the many artist groups that took the influence of his ‘independent mind’ which helped them to blossom and improve in their artworks.

Modern Art v/s Contemporary Art – Key Differences at A Snapshot

1. Modern art refers to art that began in the 1880s. Contemporary art describes the works of artists still living and creating artworks.
2. Modern Art is revolutionary by its origin (anti-romanticism), while Contemporary art is revolutionary for the freedom and magnitude of experimentation by the artists
3. Modern Art is more self-expressive, while Contemporary Art pays attention to society, thus known for its social impact
4. Modern Art is primarily made on canvases, while Contemporary Art is on every medium that you can think of – video art, tech-enabled artworks, object design, graphical arts
5. Modern art focuses on the subjective representation of the chosen themes, while Contemporary Art takes a strong stand on social, political and cultural aspects of the world

A story to be told to explain the difference between modern and contemporary art, so let’s understand this in a bit more detail

How Courbet Buried Romanticism, and Gave Birth to Modern Art?

Just like his famous “A Burial at Ornans” painting, Gustav Courbet stayed true to his perception of realism and only ‘painting what he could see’.

The painting was the burial of Courbet’s uncle in a small French town called Ornans and the picture did not have any exaggerated visual details.

Emotions like grief and mourning were not displayed. Unlike customary Romantic paintings that show emotions and surrealism. It stayed true to its realism.

The Romanticism style became famous during the 1849-50 eras when art was still made with traditional methods. This was the time Courbet painted and released the “A Burial at Ornans” painting and critics did not like the work, especially it’s strange size which stood at 10 feet by 22 feet.

He painted real people who were actually present at the burial instead of art models.

“The Burial of Ornans was in reality, the burial of Romanticism”  Courbet eventually concluded.

None of his friends, family, or loved ones could have predicted the success and fame the painting brought to the art world. His different style sealed his name as the ‘first modern artist’ and it began the introduction of the ‘Modern Art Period’

What is Modern Art?

When we hear the word modern we begin to think about new, trendy, and fashionable things in the world.

“Modern Art” can simply be described as the style and philosophy of artworks produced during the 1890-1960 era.

In other words, the style applied many concepts of Modern Art but it made more emphasis on social, economic, and political matters. This was possible with the use of new materials and components in producing art. The main aim of Modern Art was setting aside the customary traditions of the past world and focusing on a new approach in identifying and assessing the current issues of the world.

How Modern Art introduced us to a new era of Art?

Modernism movement introduced many fresh concepts and ideas into the world of art.

As a result, many artists of that time started exploring dreams, symbolism, and personal iconography as their main style. Some other artists began to test the use of coloring and non-traditional materials.

Many known artists such as Pablo Picasso took this influence, and he introduced a new style of painting with the Modernism. It was called cubism which was known for its geometric forms. This then evolved over the years up to the 1830s.

The invention of art photography and film cameras then provided artists with new ways for the world illustrations and sceneries in their works.

Modern Art is used to conveying the era of ‘Modernism’, a time where art is described with various terms ending with ‘ism’s’ such as; Fauvism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Dadaism, Cubism, Surrealism, Expressionism, Pop Art, and many other art movements.

All of it formed the foundation of Modernism Art. These art movements were influenced by a number of factors like; African and Asian Art, Light, Culture, History, etc.

Some of the most well-known ‘Modernist Masters’ include; Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Georges Seurat, Paul Cézanne, Andre Derain, Henri Matisse, Henri de Toulouse, Piet Mondrian, Raoul Dufy, Maurice de Vlaminck, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Wassily Kandinsky, and Édouard Manet just to name a few.

Read 10 Top Modern Art Paintings

What is Contemporary Art?

By definition, Contemporary Art refers to the work of arts made since the aftermath of World War II and is used to describe the works of artists still living and creating artworks.

All the way to the year 1910 when the term was first to use, art critic Roger Fry founded the Contemporary Art Society in London.

After World War II, the term was used to define the art movement.

Critics described it as an era where ‘modern art’ was no longer contemporary enough to have a positive effect on the younger generations.

Throughout history, the term contemporary can also be traced back to the time of Modernism, but it was a special type of art that did not describe a specific period.

Instead, it was only based on current matters like social, economic and political issues.

Characteristics of Contemporary Art

The era of Contemporary works of art produced experimental works that affect a wider range of social, economic, and political issues.

This idea reflected the issues that affect the world today, which are in the form of racism, globalization, oppression, poverty, feminism among many others. Over the last 30 years, we have witnessed a growing list of artworks that bring about awareness of the most important and urgent matters. They were all highlighted by video art, salons, object designs, graphical arts, and social media.

Contemporary art also looks like tackling and exposing more issues that will occur in the future. This is one of the most striking differences between Modern and Contemporary art.

For one who will love to explore both modern and contemporary art, there are many places in the world to see and experience it all. Take, for example, New York, which is one of the largest cities in the USA, is home to some of the richest museums with countless breathtaking works.

What will the Future of Art be?

Thanks mostly to the advent of new technology, art has become more accessible to more audiences and artists. Despite all the great things this world has to offer, the future will not be immune to unpleasant eventualities that might occur.

With the emergence of more of these technologies, today is true, a great time to become an artist. Read about must-see art museums for contemporary art.

For the deep-thinkers and highly creative minds, you can reach your dreams and create a series of artworks all by yourself. This can enable you to impress even the most hardcore Modern Art enthusiast by making them appreciate Contemporary art more.

What Gustave Courbet has done in the past can very well be replicated by none other than you.

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In his early life, his family moved often. He spent most of his time in villages in modern-day Ukraine among sugar beet plantations. He knew nothing about professional artists until the age of 12, although he was surrounded by art in the form of peasant embroidery and in decorative walls and stoves.  

After his father died in 1904, Malevich moved to Moscow, where he studied at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture. His early work was influenced by Impressionism, Symbolism, and Fauvism. He participated in his first exhibition in 1911 as part of the artist group Soyuz Molodyozhi.

After a trip to Paris in 1912, where he visited an exhibition of Pablo Picasso, he became heavily influenced by Cubism. This led to him joining the Jack of Diamonds group of artists, and he led the Russian Cubist movement. 

Malevich began creating canvases filled with abstract patterns in his own style that he called Suprematism. The idea behind Suprematism is that color, line, and shape are more important than narrative or subject matter in art. Over the next 6 years, Malevich painted some of his most important pieces. 

From 1919 to 1921 Malevich taught art in Moscow and modern-day Leningrad, where he would spend the rest of his life.

In 1927 Malevich went to Warsaw where he was given an elaborate welcome thanks to his Polish heritage. Here he held his first foreign exhibition before traveling to Germany where he finally received international recognition. 

Unfortunately, the Soviet Union banned modern art, leading to much of Malevich’s work being confiscated. He was also banned from exhibiting or creating art in an abstract style. This led to Malevich spiraling into poverty and stupor on the way to his death in 1935. 

1. Three Women On The Road

‘Three women on the road’ was created in 1900 by Kazimir Malevich in Impressionism style.

2. Underwear on the Fence

‘Underwear on the fence’ was created in 1903 by Kazimir Malevich in Impressionism style.

3. Spring Garden in Blossom

‘Spring Garden in Blossom’ was created in 1904 by Kazimir Malevich in Impressionism style.

4. Birkenhain

Hand-painted oil painting reproduction on canvas of Birkenhain 1905 by artist Kazimir Malevich

5. Winter Landscape

Despite the natural character and improvisational nature of the painting, Winter Landscape by Kazimir Malevich made in the year 1906 contains complex formal features.

6. Church

‘Church’ was created in 1905 by Kazimir Malevich in the Pointillism style.

7. Landscape with Yellow House

‘Landscape with Yellow House’ was created in 1907 by Kazimir Malevich in the Pointillism style.

8. Prayer

‘Prayer’ was created in 1907 by Kazimir Malevich in Symbolism style.

9. Sketch For Fresco

‘Sketch for fresco’ was created in 1907 by Kazimir Malevich in Symbolism style.

10. Triumph of the Skies

‘Triumph of the Skies’ was created in 1907 by Kazimir Malevich in Symbolism style.

11. The Wedding

‘The wedding’ was created in 1907 by Kazimir Malevich in the Post-Impressionism style.

12. Song Of The Blue Clouds

‘Song of the Blue Clouds’ was created in 1908 by Kazimir Malevich in Symbolism style.

13. Oak And Dryads

Kazimir Malevich’s Oak and Dryads is a painting on a fabulous theme in folklore performance made in the year 1908.

14. River in Forest

‘River in Forest’ was created in 1908 by Kazimir Malevich in Impressionism style.

15. Woman Picking Flowers

‘Woman picking flowers’ was created in 1908 by Kazimir Malevich in Symbolism style.

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Hofmann started studying art in 1898 in Munich. By 1904 the artist had moved to Paris where he was affected by the works of Henrie Matisse and Robert Delaunay. Hofmann exhibited his works in Paris until the outbreak of World War I, at which time he was forced to move back to Munich. It was here that he opened his first school of painting in 1915. 

Hofmann developed a reputation as a progressive teacher, which ultimately led to him being invited to teach on the west coast of the USA in 1930 where he eventually settled and lived out his life. 

He opened the Hans Hofmann School of Fine Art in New York City which became a highly prestigious establishment. He continued to teach at this establishment until 1958 when he disbanded his academy to focus on his own art for the remainder of his life. The result was an impressive last exhibition in Berkeley, California, just before his death in 1966. 

Hofmann’s early work was characterized by landscapes and still lifes in the Expressionist style. It was after his move to the USA that Hofmann’s work began to gravitate towards the Abstract Expressionist style he is known for today. This work is characterized by both geometric and irregular forms, bright colors, and extensive creativity. 

Besides being a pioneer in experimenting with improvisatory techniques, he was a very influential art teacher of the 20th century. He helped a generation of American painters develop a style of Abstract Expressionism after World War II. 

1. Self-Portrait

‘Self Portrait‘ was created in 1902 by Hans Hofmann in Pointillism style.

2. St. Tropez

‘St Tropez‘ was created in 1928 by Hans Hofmann in Expressionism style.

3. Japanese Girl

‘Japanese Girl‘ was created in 1935 by Hans Hofmann in Fauvism style.

4. Landscape

The landscape is one of Hans Hofmann’s vivid paintings of geometric and irregular forms made in the year 1935 and bridging the concerns of early modernist movements with the tenets of Abstract Expressionism

5. Interior Composition

Interior Composition was made by Hans Hofmann in the year 1935 in fauvism style.

6. Yellow Table On Green

This painting ‘Yellow Table On Green’ was made in the year 1936 in Fauvism style after Hans Hofmann moved from Germany to New York.

7. Still Life Interior

‘Still Life Interior‘ was created in 1941 by Hans Hofmann in Fauvism style.

8. Provincetown

Provincetown was made in the year 1942, Hans Hofmann was considered by many to be the Father of Abstract Expressionism.

9. Shapes in Black

‘Shapes in Black‘ was created in 1944 by Hans Hofmann in Abstract Expressionism style.

10. Cataclysm

Cataclysm was made in the year 1945 by Hans Hofmann in Abstract Expressionism style.

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Konchalovsky became interested in painting after attending an art school in Kharkiv at the tender age of eight. Once his father was released from prison the family moved to Moscow where his father began publishing literature once more. 

He chose many well-known artists to illustrate these publications, many of whom would visit the Konchalovsky home frequently. This led to their home being a hub of art and creativity which became an important part of Konchalvsky’s upbringing. This is what ultimately led to him deciding to become an artist. 

From the age of 20-22 Konchalovsky lived in Paris where he studied at the Academie Julian. This helped him to advance his skills drastically before he moved back to Moscow to study at the Academy of Arts. 

In 1907, at the age of 31, Konchalovsky graduated from the Academy of Arts. Although his art was held in high praise by his contemporaries, the artist himself wasn’t satisfied with his work. 

He felt his work lacked individual style. He was known for often destroying his work before it was finished due to a belief that he couldn’t create a masterpiece. 

This changed when Konchalovsky visited a Van Gogh exhibition in Paris. Van Gogh’s work influenced him greatly and the artist is quoted as saying “Van Gogh gave me the understanding of painting as art”. Van Gogh’s influence would be very noticeable in Konchalovsky’s work for the next three years.   

In 1909, Konchalovsky co-founded a group of artists known as the “Jack of Diamonds”. The intention of the group was to challenge societal norms by denying academic traditions. They were full of praise for post-impressionist, cubist, and Fauvist painters. In a nutshell, the group existed to oppose the traditions of society and went on to become one of the biggest groups of early Russian avant-garde. 

Starting in 1909, Konchalovsky exhibited his work frequently, but it wasn’t until 1922 that he held his first solo exhibition at the Tretyakov Gallery. During this period he was painting mostly landscapes and still lifes. Like the rest of the Jack of Diamonds, his work was heavily influenced by Paul Cézanne, a French post-impressionist painter. Later on, in life, Konchalovsky began painting portraits that are considered to be in the Social Realism style.   

Konchalovsky’s painting style consisted of simple compositions and details with thick colors. Many critics believe that he mixed his paints with clay instead of oil which would’ve contributed to this color thickness. 

Konchalovsky avoided historical paintings, stating that he preferred to prove his patriotism in practice instead of on canvas. 

Konchalovsky died in 1956. 

1. Bullfighting Amateur

‘Bullfighting amateur’ was created in 1910 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in Fauvism style.

2. Portrait Of Daughter

‘Portrait of S. P. Konchalovsky with her daughter’ was created in 1916 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in Expressionism style.

3. Self-portrait

Self-portrait and portrait of Pyotr Konchalovsky are some of the artworks by Ilya Mashkov.

4. Scheherazade

‘Scheherazade’ was created in 1917 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in Fauvism style.

5. At Summer

‘At summer’ was created in 1939 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in Socialist Realism style.

6. Still Life. Currants on a sieve

‘Still Life. Currants on a sieve.’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

7. Roses

‘Roses’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

8. Roses and Asparagus

‘Roses and asparagus’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

9. Spring Day

‘Spring Day’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

10. Still Life With Flowers

‘Still Life with Flowers’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

11. Jasmine Bush

‘Jasmine bush’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

12. Poppies

‘Poppies’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

13. Lilacs in a Purse on the Floor

‘Lilacs in a purse on the floor’ was created in 1955 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

14. Gardener

‘Gardener’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

15. Girl With a Fan

‘Girl with a Fan’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

16. Girl From Arles

‘Girl from Arles’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

17. Flower in a high Vase

‘Flowers in a high vase.’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in Post-Impressionism style.

18. Study

‘Study’ was created in 1951 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in a Realism style.

19. Oranges

‘Oranges’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

20. Palm Trees and Geranium

‘Palm trees and geranium’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

21. South of France. Palma

‘South of France. Palma.’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

22.  Tulips

‘Tulips’ was created in 1908 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

23. Flower Garden

‘Flower-garden’ was created in 1909 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

24. Bullfight

‘Bullfight’ was created in 1910 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in Expressionism style.

25. Grenada

‘Grenada’ was created in 1910 by Pyotr Konchalovsky in the Post-Impressionism style.

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