What Are the Similarities and Differences of Contemporary and Modern Art?

Art|Modern Art

Contemporary art and modern art are two distinct categories of art that have their own unique characteristics, despite having many similarities. Both are forms of visual arts that emphasize the creative expression of the artist, however, there are also some differences between them.

Similarities

The most obvious similarity between contemporary and modern art is their focus on the artist’s own creativity and expression. Both styles of art involve the use of a variety of materials, including traditional media such as paint, clay, and fabric, as well as unconventional materials such as found objects and recycled materials. In addition, both styles often feature abstract elements, which can be seen in everything from painting to sculpture.

Another similarity between contemporary and modern art is their emphasis on experimentation. Artists in both genres often explore new techniques or try to push the boundaries of what is considered acceptable in terms of form and content. This experimentation is often seen in works that feature bold colors or non-traditional subject matter.

Differences

One major difference between contemporary and modern art is the time period they span. Modern art began in the late 19th century and continued until the middle of the 20th century while contemporary art began in the mid-20th century and continues today. This means that contemporary artists have access to a much wider range of materials than their predecessors did.

Another difference between contemporary and modern art is their approach to subject matter. Contemporary artists often explore more personal themes such as identity, politics, gender roles, sexuality, religion, etc. while modern artists tended to focus more on formal qualities like color theory or composition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, contemporary and modern art share many similarities but also have some significant differences. Both have an emphasis on creativity and experimentation but differ in terms of their time periods and approaches to subject matter.