neo expressionism
Neo-expressionism burst onto the scene in the 1970’s as a reaction to the strictness of minimalism and conceptual art dominating the art world at that time. It draws its roots from the German expressionism of the early 20th century but distinguishes itself with well-defined contemporary characteristics.
At the core of neo-expressionism is a quest for deep emotional expression. Artists of this movement seek to convey powerful, often tumultuous emotions through their work. This sets them apart from the cold abstraction prevalent in minimalism and conceptual art.
In contrast to minimalism, neo-expressionism favors figurative forms. Images are intentionally distorted and exaggerated to emphasize emotional impact. This deliberate distortion transcends mere visual aesthetics to achieve a deeper emotional resonance.
Neo-expressionist artists often wield vibrant and contrasting colors to intensify the emotion present in their works. These expressive hues create a striking visual impact, capturing the viewer’s attention.
Gesturality is also a hallmark of neo-expressionism, with expressive gestures and vigorous brushstrokes adding a physical dimension to the artwork, emphasizing the creative process itself.
Themes explored in neo-expressionism can be provocative, tackling subjects such as politics, society, sexuality, and human nature. Some artists use shocking images to elicit an emotional reaction from the viewer, breaking traditional boundaries.
Neo-expressionism represents a return to more traditional painting techniques, breaking away from the dominance of conceptual forms in contemporary art. This movement has contributed to revitalizing interest in figurative painting and emotional expression.
Prominent figures in neo-expressionism include Jean-Michel Basquiat, Julian Schnabel, Anselm Kiefer, Georg Baselitz, and David Salle. Their impact lies in their ability to rekindle interest in figurative painting and emotional expression within the context of contemporary art.