Who Are the Influences of Modern Art?

Art|Modern Art

Modern art is an expansive field that encompasses a wide range of visual and conceptual approaches. From abstract expressionism to post-modernism, many influential artists have shaped the course of modern art since the late 19th century. These individuals have pushed the boundaries of what can be considered art, as well as expanding the possibilities for artistic expression around the world.

The most iconic figures in modern art are Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp. Picasso was a Spanish painter and sculptor who is widely credited with creating the Cubist movement in the early 20th century.

Cubism is characterized by its use of abstract forms and geometric shapes to create a fractured image of reality. Additionally, Picasso’s works were often imbued with a sense of emotional intensity and psychological complexity that resonated with viewers all over the world.

Duchamp was a French artist who developed a more conceptual approach to art making. He explored notions such as chance and irony through his readymades – everyday objects presented as works of art – and his use of non-traditional media, including unexposed photographic plates, sound recordings, and books. His groundbreaking works redefined what could be considered a work of art, paving the way for later movements such as Pop Art and Conceptual Art.

Other influential figures in modern art include painters Wassily Kandinsky, Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, Henri Matisse, Joan Miró; sculptors Constantin Brancusi; photographers Man Ray; performance artists Joseph Beuys; installation artists Bruce Nauman; mixed media artists Louise Bourgeois; filmmakers Stan Brakhage; installation artists Claes Oldenburg; Pop Artists Roy Lichtenstein; Postmodernists Jeff Koons; fashion designers Rei Kawakubo and Issey Miyake; graffiti artist Jean-Michel Basquiat; digital artist Nam June Paik; video artist Bill Viola; multimedia artist Laurie Anderson; photographers Cindy Sherman and Nan Goldin among many more. These individuals not only pushed the boundaries of traditional artistic practices but also introduced new ways to think about art itself.

From these influential figures in modern art emerges two distinct trends: abstraction on one hand and concept on another. Abstraction focuses on formal elements such as line, color, shape or texture to create an image that speaks to viewers on an emotional level while concept focuses on ideas or concepts expressed through objects or actions rather than visual representation. Together these two major trends form the foundation for contemporary art today.

In conclusion, modern art has been heavily influenced by a number of iconic figures throughout history including Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, Wassily Kandinsky, Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko among many others who introduced new ways to think about art itself through their respective approaches to abstraction or concept. These individuals have pushed the boundaries of what can be considered art while also expanding possibilities for artistic expression around the world.