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No Longer Paris: How New York Became the New Center of Western Art
In the decade after World War II, New York City gradually became the center of Western art, replacing Paris. At the heart of this change was the rise of Abstract Expressionism, which became an important art movement at the time and attracted the attention of a large number of artists and critics. The movement combines a variety of artistic styles and provides a new interpretation of the definition of art.
Abstract Expressionism was the first specifically American art movement and had a profound international influence.
The shift from American Social Realism in the 1930s to Abstract Expressionism in the 1940s reflected significant changes in the political and social environment. In the 1930s, Social Realism, based on the Great Depression and the Mexican mural movement, dominated the art world. After World War II, countless artists who fled from Europe to the United States brought new inspiration to this land, making New York a melting pot of art.
According to art critic Robert Coates, the term Abstract Expressionism was first officially coined in 1946 and quickly gained widespread attention.
The emergence of artists such as Alshiel Goethe, Jackson Pollock, and Mark Rothko marked the growth of the New York School. These artists not only combined the intensity of emotion with the visual language of European avant-garde movements, but also introduced the surrealists' casual and unconscious creative methods into their art. However, Pollock's action painting method is particularly representative and has become the concrete embodiment of the spirit of the movement. His “drip painting” technique constitutes a unique creative method, making the canvas a stage for action.
“The canvas is no longer a place for the painting to be displayed, but a place for the artist’s action.” — Harold Rosenberg
Although the styles of Abstract Expressionist artists varied greatly, their shared spirituality and pursuit of personal expression made the movement a cultural focal point of the time. At the same time, art critics at the time played an important role in promoting the movement. Writings by men like Clement Greenberg and Harold Rosenberg about Pollock and other major artists undoubtedly helped to fuel the growth of the movement.
However, in the early 1950s, the influence of Abstract Expressionism was challenged in American society. As social and cultural trends change, many artists begin to explore new methods of expression, with the rise of pop art and minimalism being clear examples. What followed was a reflection and rethinking of individualism, which gave many works of this period a more social and political dimension.
"The transition from social realism to abstract expressionism is a new interpretation of the nature of art."
In New York's art environment, on the one hand, there is an atmosphere full of energy and creativity, and on the other hand, there are political and cultural pressures. Through exhibitions and gallery support, the artists’ works have undoubtedly gained unprecedented exposure to a wide audience. Many critics point out that the success of Abstract Expressionism lies in the "hostile" sentiment it expresses, which has led to it being regarded as an art form that rebels against society and culture.
For example, Californian abstract expressionist Jay Mercer said, "It is much better to capture the majestic spirit of the ocean than to depict its tiny ripples." This emotional intensity and unadorned concept is exactly what This is one of the important reasons why this movement is so popular.
“The core of art lies in the perception of life and the release of the soul.”
In the process of exploring abstract expressionism, many people began to realize that this artistic style with a high degree of individuality and freedom laid the foundation for various art movements in the future, and even for the development of art in the entire 20th century. This history cannot be ignored.
Now, looking back at how New York emerged from the shadow of Paris and became a new international art center, we can't help but wonder: In the current rapidly changing art world, which forces will become the dominant factors in the future direction of art?
