THEORY AND CONTEXT 1

The Explosive World of Abstract Expressionism: A Deep Exploration of Pictorial Emotion

Abstract expressionism, which emerged in the tumultuous post-war art scene, represents a revolution in pictorial expression. This movement, which reached its peak in the 1940s and 1950s, not only challenged existing stylistic conventions, but also gave voice to an explosion of emotions through painting. In this essay, we will dive into the fascinating universe of Abstract Expressionism, exploring its roots, its main exponents, and how this movement transcended the limitations of traditional figuration to become a visual testament to the depths of the human soul. I won’t focus on Jackson Pollock’s tumultuous brushstrokes or Mark Rothko’s chromatic intensity, but I will vaguely mention the various ways artists embraced abstraction to express the complexity of human experience in a post-war world marked by anxiety, hope, and transformation. On this journey, we will discover how Abstract Expressionism became a medium through which Expressionist artists not only painted canvases, but also pure emotions, freeing art from conventional shackles and allowing the painting to speak directly to the viewer’s heart.

Abstract Expressionism is an artistic movement that emerged in the 1940s in New York, United States, and established itself as one of the most influential currents of modern art. This movement marked a radical break with previous artistic traditions and was distinguished by its focus on emotional expression and abstraction.

Unlike previous artistic styles, which focused on figurative representation and fidelity to reality, Abstract Expressionism is characterized by the creation of works that seek to convey emotions and moods through abstract forms, vibrant colors, and spontaneous gestures. The artists of Abstract Expressionism adopted an experimental and liberating attitude, moving away from established artistic conventions.

There are two main currents within Abstract Expressionism:

1. Lyrical or Gestural Abstract Expressionism: In this movement, artists focused on spontaneity and gestures. They used broad brushstrokes and impulsive gestures to express emotions and moods on the surface of the work. Jackson Pollock is one of the main representatives of this trend, known for his “dripping” technique, where he let the paint fall directly onto the canvas from a brush or a perforated can.
2. Abstract Expressionism, Colorist or Color Fields: In this movement, artists focused on the use of intense colors and large areas of paint to create visual impact and convey emotions. Mark Rothko is a leading exponent of this approach, creating works with large blocks of color that seek to evoke deep emotional and spiritual experiences in the viewer.

Hilma af Klint: A Pioneer of Abstract Expressionism: Hilma af Klint (1862-1944) is among the most fascinating and underrated artists of her time. Although his contribution to Abstract Expressionism has often been overlooked, his work reveals a deep connection to the spiritual and a unique vision of art. Af Klint was a member of the group of female artists known as “The Five,” who shared esoteric and spiritual interests. This environment influenced his innovative approach to art and the connection between the tangible and the intangible in his work.

“Altarbild No. 1” and “Altarbild No. 2”: A Spiritual Journey: Both works, “Altarbild No. 1” and “Altarbild No. 2”, are fundamental pieces in the artistic production of Hilma af Klint. The choice of the term “Altarbild” suggests a spiritual and ritual dimension to these creations. “Altarbild No. 1” presents a complex composition of geometric shapes, vibrant colors and mystical symbols, while “Altarbild No. 2” follows the same line but with an evolution in symbolic representation.

In “Altarbild No. 1,” af Klint uses concentric circles, lines, and spirals that intertwine, creating a cosmos of symbols and forms that seems to merge the earthly with the heavenly. The rich and varied color palette evokes emotions and sensations that go beyond conventional visual perception. On the other hand, “Altarbild No. 2” continues this spiritual journey, incorporating new forms and symbols that suggest a progression in af Klint’s exploration of the connection between the individual and the cosmos.

Both of Hilma af Klint’s works challenge the artistic conventions of the time and reveal her unique approach to the visual representation of abstract and spiritual concepts. The geometric and symbolic abstraction in these pieces anticipates the later developments of Abstract Expressionism and establishes af Klint as an influential forerunner on the path to the dematerialization of art.

The Impact of Abstract Expressionism on Contemporary Art: To fully understand Hilma af Klint’s contribution to Abstract Expressionism, it is essential to contextualize her work within the broader movement. Abstract Expressionism emerged as a response to the social and political tensions of the time, as well as the aftermath of World War II. Artists such as Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko sought new forms of expression that escaped traditional artistic conventions, resulting in unprecedented creative freedom.

Abstract Expressionism is characterized by the use of impulsive gestures, expressive brushstrokes, and the liberation of painting from any figurative restrictions. The artist’s emotions become the driving force behind the creation, triggering a visceral experience for the viewer. This movement transformed the perception of art, bringing abstraction to the forefront and challenging conventional expectations.

Not only did Abstract Expressionism influence painting, but it also spread to other forms of artistic expression, such as sculpture and abstract art in general. This movement represented a significant shift in the perception of art, promoting the idea that self-expression and emotion were fundamental elements in artistic creation. The creative freedom and formal experimentation introduced by Abstract Expressionism remain a source of inspiration for contemporary artists and continue to leave a lasting mark on the history of modern art.

Cecily Brown, the contemporary artist who continues the expressionist legacy. Brown is a British painter born in 1969 in London. He has stood out in the contemporary art scene for his distinctive and vigorous approach to painting. His work fuses abstract and figurative elements, creating dynamic and energetic compositions.

Brown is known for her expressive use of the brush, employing loose, gestural brushstrokes that bring her canvases to life. His style sits between the abstract and the figurative, allowing observers to find a wide variety of interpretations in his works. She has mentioned that she has been influenced by a wide range of artists throughout the history of art, from classical to contemporary painters. Connections to artists such as Francis Bacon and Willem de Kooning, among many others, have been noted.

The themes in Brown’s works can vary, but they often explore sensuality, the human body, and the interplay between abstraction and representation. His works often evoke intense emotions and a sense of movement. Throughout her career, Cecily Brown has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions. He has exhibited his work in important museums and galleries around the world, establishing himself as a leading figure in the field of contemporary art.

Cecily Brown has contributed significantly to the contemporary art scene with her bold and expressive approach, and her work continues to be the subject of interest and discussion in the art realm.

From my point of view, the work that should be highlighted is “Suddenly Last Summer”, one of his most significant and powerful works. Created in 1999, the painting is named after the play of the same name written by Tennessee Williams in 1958 and later adapted into a film in 1959. The play tackles dark and disturbing themes, and is known for its emotional intensity.

Brown’s work is known for its expressive and gestural style. On “Suddenly Last Summer,” you can clearly see loose, energetic brushstrokes that give rise to a sense of dynamism in the composition. The connection to Tennessee Williams’ work suggests that the painting could explore themes related to human psychology, desire, memory, and emotional intensity. The choice of title suggests a narrative or a specific event that may have occurred suddenly, evoking a sense of urgency or tragedy.

Cecily Brown often uses a vibrant color palette rich in nuances, and in this work it could not be less since it is part of her identity as an artist. The composition can be complex, with layers of shapes and colors that invite more detailed exploration. The artist tends to balance abstraction with figurative elements, allowing viewers to find diverse interpretations.

It’s common for Cecily Brown to draw inspiration from a variety of sources, from art history to literature to film. In this case, the connection to Tennessee Williams’ work adds layers of meaning and cultural reference to the painting.

Since the interpretation of art can be subjective, it is important to remember that different viewers may perceive the work uniquely. “Suddenly Last Summer” is a work that has captured the attention of critics and art lovers, and its visual richness invites deeper exploration.

Conclusions, Abstract Expressionism, driven by visionaries such as Hilma af Klint, has left an indelible mark on the history of art. The exploration of emotional expression and abstraction has redefined the very nature of art, challenging established conventions and opening up new creative possibilities. “Altarbild No. 1” and “Altarbild No. 2”: by af Klint stand as a testament to the connection between the spiritual and the abstract, anticipating the future developments of Abstract Expressionism.

The legacy of this movement manifests itself in diversity and continuous experimentation in contemporary art. Today’s artists like Cecily B, looking back on art history, find inspiration in the courage and innovation of those who, like Hilma af Klint, Jackson Pollock, or Willem de Kooning, challenged the artistic conventions of their time. Ultimately, Abstract Expressionism, through its precursors and its heirs, remains a source of inspiration and a reminder of art’s ability to transcend the tangible and connect with the deepest emotions of the human being.