Early 20th Century Modernism and Abstraction

In this presentation, we discuss the birth of the Modernist and Abstract art movement in the early 20^th century.

Modernism describes the cultural movement of the early 20^th century which is characterized by “a self-conscious break with the past and a search for new forms of expression.” This break with the past occurred in literature, politics, religion, and many other aspects of society. This break from the past heavily influenced art and caused a shift in focus from the superficial and outward appearance of something (the “surface”) to an object’s content and values (the “depth”)- thus giving rise to abstraction.

Abstract art, in terms of painting and sculpture, does not realistically depict people, places, or things. These people, places and things are depicted in exaggerated and distorted forms. This allows the artist and the observer to focus on and interpret things like shapes and their size, scale, and colors as well as the brushstrokes the artist used and how the piece was created.

We refer to Sonia Delaunay, Alexandra Exter, and Tarsila do Amaral who we learn about in chapter nine of Charwick’s Women, Art, and Society. Frank Auerbach is mentioned to provide a male example of abstraction in the 1900's. A more contemporary reference is made to Dora Woordum to show the growth of Modernism and Abstraction and its presence in today’s society.

Sonia Delaunay- Couverture, 1911

Alexandra Exter- Cubist Nude, 1912

Sonia Delaunay- Costume for Cleopatre 1918

Tarsila do Amaral- Abaporu, 1928

Frank Auerbach-
Looking towards
Mornington Crescent Station - Night, 1972-1973

Frank Auerbach- Head of J.Y.M., 1973

Dora Woodrum- Intensity, 2012

Dora Woodrum- Serenity, 2012

We close the presentation with a question to stimulate discussion within the class, touching on the importance of how abstract art doesn't focus on the superficial appearance of an object but rather how abstraction focuses on the intrinsic value of the object itself. The question is posed as follows: Do you think that abstract art either depicting women or created by women reflects that same concept of intrinsic value over superficial appearance? Ponder away ladies and gentlemen.

Presentation by:

Glenn Spencer, Steffie Ossa, Brenda Lee, Kevon Haughton