Untitled (First Abstract Watercolour), Wassily Kandinsky

Welcome to the vibrant and captivating world of abstract art! In this journey, we will dive deep into the fascinating styles and movements that have shaped the realm of abstract expression. Abstract art is a relatively modern form of art and encompasses a variety of styles and movements that emerged in the early 20th century. From the ground-breaking Cubism to the harmonious De Stijl, and from the energetic Futurism to the minimalistic beauty of Minimalism, we'll discover how artists have unleashed their creativity, defying conventions and redefining the boundaries of art.

1. Breaking the Boundaries: Cubism

Cubism, pioneered by the iconic Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, shattered the traditional notion of representing reality. This revolutionary movement introduced a new way of perceiving the world by depicting objects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously. Imagine looking at a subject from different angles and capturing its essence in abstract geometric shapes. That's what Cubism achieved, utilizing fragmented forms to create a fresh perspective and challenge the conventional understanding of art.

2. Embracing the Energy: Futurism

Enter the dynamic world of Futurism, a movement born in Italy, where artists celebrated the speed, movement, and technological advancements of the modern age. Popular artists of this movement include Umberto Boccioni and Carlo Carrà. Imagine capturing the essence of a bustling cityscape, a roaring train, or the sheer power of a machine. Futurist artworks utilized fragmented forms to convey energy and a sense of movement, providing a visual experience that mirrored the fast-paced nature of the world.

Elasticity (detail), (1912), Umberto Boccioni

3. Seeking the Universal: Suprematism

Kazimir Malevich introduced Suprematism, a movement that aspired to achieve pure abstraction. Through simple geometric forms such as squares, circles, and triangles, Suprematism aimed to transcend the physical world and tap into the realm of spirituality. By stripping away representational elements, artists sought to create works that expressed universal concepts and invoked a sense of transcendence and enlightenment.

English Man in Moscow, Kazimir Malevich (1914)

4. Art Meets Industry: Constructivism

In the realm of Constructivism, art and industry converged to create a new aesthetic. Originating in Russia, and lead by artists such as El Lissitzky and Wassily Kandinsky this movement emphasized the integration of art with technology and the practical application of artistic ideas. Artists used industrial materials and techniques to create abstract works that often served a functional purpose. Constructivism aimed to break the boundaries between art and everyday life, advocating for the use of art in shaping a better society.

5. Harmonizing Form and Colour: De Stijl

Step into the world of De Stijl, a Dutch movement that sought to create a universal visual language. Led by artists like Piet Mondrian and Theo van Doesburg, De Stijl embraced geometric abstraction and the use of primary colours. The movement aimed to achieve a harmonious balance of form and colour, reducing art to its essential elements. By simplifying compositions and emphasizing the grid, De Stijl artworks exuded a sense of purity, clarity, and visual harmony.

Broadway Boogie Woogie, Piet Mondrian (1943)

6. Emotions Unleashed: Abstract Expressionism

Abstract Expressionism emerged in the United States after World War II, representing a powerful outpouring of emotions. It can be divided into two main branches: Action Painting as exemplified by Jackson Pollock and Colour Field Painting by artists including Helen Frankenthaler. Action Painting emphasized the spontaneous and gestural application of paint, capturing the artist's raw emotions on the canvas. On the other hand, Colour Field Painting employed large areas of flat colour to evoke a contemplative and immersive experience, inviting viewers to explore the depths of emotion within themselves.

7. Playing with Perception: Op Art

Op Art, short for "optical art," aimed to captivate and challenge the viewer's perception. Through precise patterns, geometric forms, and contrasting colours, Op Art created optical illusions and visual effects. Imagine experiencing art that appears to move or vibrate before your eyes. Op Art played with the principles of optics, delivering an engaging and immersive experience that defied expectations and sparked curiosity. Two artists recognised as leaders in this field were Bridget Riley and Victor Vasarely.

8. Less is More: Minimalism

In the realm of Minimalism, as embraced by artists including Donald Judd and Dan Flavin, simplicity reigns supreme. This movement aimed to distil art to its essential elements, focusing on geometric forms, clean lines, and monochromatic colour schemes. Minimalist artworks often emphasize objecthood and the viewer's experience of space. By reducing art to its bare essentials, Minimalism invites contemplation and allows for a deeper connection with the essence of the work.

9. Impressions Unleashed: Abstract Impressionism

Abstract Impressionism combines the spontaneity of Abstract Expressionism with the evocative qualities of Impressionism. Artists in this movement including Joan Mitchell and Willem de Kooning aimed to capture impressions and emotions rather than representing the world realistically. With gestural brushwork and a focus on the expressive application of paint, Abstract Impressionism unleashes a world of sensations, inviting viewers to explore their own emotional responses to the artwork.

City Landscape, Joan Mitchell (1955), detail.

We have touched only briefly on some of the major diverse styles and movements of abstract art. However, it is inspiring to contemplate the boundless creativity and innovation that these artists have brought to the world. From Cubism's fragmented perspectives to Minimalism's serene simplicity, abstract art continues to challenge our perceptions and ignite our imagination. So, the next time you encounter an abstract artwork, embrace the experience, allow your mind to wander, and delve into the realms of pure creativity!

From Cubism to Minimalism: A Journey through Abstract Art Movements