Abstract Expressionism
A post-World War II art movement in American painting, developed in New York in the 1940s. It was the first specifically American movement to achieve international influence and put New York City at the center of the western art world, a role formerly filled by Paris.
The Movement
Abstract Expressionism is often characterized by gestural brush-strokes or mark-making, and the impression of spontaneity. The term was first applied to American art in 1946 by the art critic Robert Coates.
Key Characteristics
- Scale: Canvases were often large to engulf the viewer.
- All-over composition: The entire canvas is treated with equal importance.
- Emphasis on process: The act of painting itself was seen as part of the content.
"The painting has a life of its own. I try to let it come through." — Jackson Pollock
Major Figures
The movement is generally divided into two groups:
- Action Painters: Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning.
- Color Field Painters: Mark Rothko, Barnett Newman, Clyfford Still.
Why It Matters for Collectors
Abstract Expressionism represents a pivotal moment in art history where the focus shifted from representing the external world to expressing internal emotion. For collectors, works from this era (and contemporary works influenced by it) often command high prices due to their historical significance and raw emotional power.
What to Look For
When evaluating works in this style (including contemporary successors), consider:
- Energy and Gesture: Does the work convey a sense of movement or emotional state?
- Layering: High-quality abstract works often have complex layering of paint that reveals the artist's process.
- Provenance: As with all major movements, authenticity is paramount.
Related Terms
Visual representation of Abstract Expressionism