Abstract Expressionism 1945 – 1960’s
ABTRACT EXPRESSIONISM ( ) Nicknamed “action painting” Quick, spontaneous brush strokes, seemingly done at random The method of painting was emphasized, including dripping or throwing the paint Appears to be accidental or by chance, but usually it was highly planned Believed spontaneous art would release the creativity of their unconscious minds The freedom to create is the dominant attitude. Form is totally emphasized over subject. Close to 100% abstract, with very little subject matter It pushed the limits of accepted art and taste: "break the rules and shock the viewer." Became linked with the "avant garde" art of Hollywood, and became a fad for rich people
Jackson Pollock, Lavender Mist
Pollack, White Light
Pollock, The Key
Pollock, Blue (Moby Dick)
Arshile Gorky, Water of the Flowery Mill
Gorky, Composition
Willem De Kooning, Woman I
Kooning, Valentine
Hans Hoffman, The Gate
Joan Mitchell, Lake