The era of modern art is typically considered to have begun in the late 19th century, with the advent of Impressionism. This movement was marked by a break from traditional artistic conventions, as painters began to explore new methods and styles of expression. Impressionism was followed by Post-Impressionism, Expressionism, Fauvism, Cubism, and Surrealism – all movements that challenged the established rules of representation and opened up a new world of artistic possibilities.
The major art movements of the 20th century were highly influential in their own right, but they also laid the groundwork for a series of subsequent movements, including Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Minimalism, and more. These later movements pushed even further away from traditional conventions and explored new ways of creating art.
Modern art is often characterized by its radical departure from traditional styles and techniques. While some modern artists took inspiration from classical works or used representational elements in their work, many embraced abstraction and experimented with unconventional materials or mediums. Modern artists sought to capture the spirit or essence of their subject matter rather than simply depicting it realistically.
The concept of “modern” art has evolved over time as well; what was considered avant-garde or groundbreaking in one era can become commonplace in another. As such, it can be difficult to pinpoint when modern art began or ended; this period is often defined by its distinct range of artistic styles rather than a fixed timeline.
In conclusion, the era of modern art is generally considered to have been initiated by the Impressionists in the late 19th century and continued through subsequent movements that pushed further away from traditional styles and techniques. Though there’s no exact date when this era started or ended, it’s clear that modern artists made a lasting impact on artistic expression that continues to be felt today.