MODERN ART

Abstract Expressionism

Abstract Expressionism

It is an art movement in American painting that began after World War II in New York.

The works are non-objective meaning they are not concerned with any realistic representation.

Abstract Expressionist Painting

can be appreciated and described by the quality of:

● Line ● Shape● Colour● Texture● Movement● Balance

Action Painting● Strong use of line● Bold brushwork, drips,

splatters● dynamic energy and

movement

Colour Field

● Large shapes of paint● Colour relationships

creating balance ● Often quiet and calm

Action PaintingJackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Arshile Gorky

Colour FieldHelen Frankenthaler, Mark Rothko, Ad Reinhardt

How do you talk about Abstract Expressionist Painting?

COLOURPaint

applicationHow it

makes you feel

Texture

Jackson Pollock, Number One, 1950

Willem de Kooning, Untitled, 1929

Arshile Gorky How My Mother’s Embroidered Apron Unfolds in My Life 1944

Helen Frankenthaler, Canyon, 1965

Helen Frankenthaler, A Green Thought in a Green Shade, 1981

Mark Rothko, No. 6 1951

Mark Rothko, Orange, Red, Yellow 1961

I can’t believeThis is worth$87,000,000!!

What’s Next?

Acrylic TechniquesWe will watch a video series to learn about various acrylic painting techniques.

You will be expected to take notes in your sketchbook of the techniques you want to try out. * This will be marked at the next sketchbook evaluation.

Then...

Create an Abstract Expressionist PaintingYou will paint a piece using at least one of the techniques covered in the video.

Your painting must convey a feeling. You will consider colours and painting style to best communicate this.

Finally...CritiqueWe will set up our paintings in the library and take turns analyzing each other’s work.