abstract expressionism

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Abstract Expressionism is a noun that refers to a style of painting that originated in New York in the mid-20th century. It is known for its emphasis on spontaneous, free forms of expression rather than traditional forms of art. Artists in this movement often used bold colors and abstract shapes to convey emotions and ideas.

Explanation:

• Abstract means something that does not represent real objects or people but instead focuses on shapes, colors, and forms.
• Expressionism refers to art that aims to express feelings and emotions rather than just depict the world realistically.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "abstract expressionism" when discussing art, particularly modern art. It is often used to describe works by famous artists like Jackson Pollock or Mark Rothko.

Example:

• "Jackson Pollock is a famous artist known for his abstract expressionism, where he would drip paint onto the canvas in chaotic yet expressive ways."

Advanced Usage:

• In discussions about art history, you might say: "Abstract expressionism played a crucial role in shaping the modern art landscape, allowing artists to break away from European traditions."

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of the term, but you might encounter related terms like:
  • Abstract Art: A broader category that includes any art that doesn’t depict objects in the natural world.
  • Expressionism: A movement that preceded abstract expressionism, focusing on strong emotions.

Different Meaning:

• The term "abstract" in other contexts can mean something that is not concrete or that exists as an idea rather than a physical object, such as an abstract concept like love or freedom.

Synonyms:

• While "abstract expressionism" is a specific term, you might refer to it more generally as:
  • Non-representational art
  • Modern art

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "abstract expressionism," but you might hear phrases like:
  • "Think outside the box" – this means to think creatively, which is often encouraged in abstract art.
  • "Get in touch with your emotions" – a phrase that relates to the expressive nature of this art form.

Conclusion:

Abstract Expressionism is an important artistic movement that encourages artists to express their emotions through abstract forms and colors, setting the stage for many modern art movements that followed.

Academic

Noun

1. a New York school of painting characterized by freely created abstractions; the first important school of American painting to develop independently of European styles

Synonyms

• Abstract Expressionism
• action painting