Clash of the Art Movements: Abstract Expressionism v Pop Art
Exploring the evolution of these two contrasting art movements – both of which are merged in my By Kerwin style of portrait painting
In the vast landscape of art history, two monumental movements emerged in the 20th century: Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art. These contrasting artistic revolutions revolutionised the art world with their distinct styles and philosophies.
As a UK artist whose ‘By Kerwin‘ acrylic portrait paintings combine both Pop Art with Jackson Pollock’s action painting, Abstract Expressionism style, I’m fascinated by these two art movements. In this comprehensive blog post, I explore the origins, evolution and significant artists of both movements. Join me on an enlightening journey as I explore the clash of the art movement titans: Abstract Expressionism versus Pop Art.
Abstract Expressionism & Pop Art are two influential modern art movements. Abstract Expressionism emphasises spontaneous, emotional expression through non-representational forms. Pop Art draws inspiration from popular culture; employing recognisable imagery in an often satirical or ironic manner.
Read on as I explore both of these striking, 20th century art movements in more detail.
Abstract Expressionism: unleashing the subconscious
Abstract Expressionism sprouted in the aftermath of World War II when artists sought to redefine the purpose of art and express the complexities of the human experience.
The origins of Abstract Expressionism
Abstract Expressionism found its roots in the European avant-garde movements of the early 20th century, particularly in the works of Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian. However, it was in post-war America that this movement truly flourished.
The artists of the New York School, including pioneers such as Jackson Pollock (with his action painting), Willem de Kooning and Mark Rothko (with his colour-field paintings), embraced a spontaneous and intuitive approach to art-making. They emphasised the act of painting itself rather than representing recognisable objects; delving into the realm of the abstract and the subconscious.
The evolution of Abstract Expressionism
As Abstract Expressionism evolved, two major subcategories emerged: Action Painting and Colour-Field Painting. Action painting, exemplified by Jackson Pollock’s iconic drip paintings, involved dynamic and gestural brushwork that captured the intensity of the artist’s emotional state. I’ve written several blog posts on Jackson Pollock and his action painting technique – explore this section here.
Colour-field painting, on the other hand – represented by Mark Rothko’s luminous, large-scale canvases – focused on expansive fields of colour; inviting viewers to immerse themselves in contemplation and emotional response. Read my blog post that compares and contrasts colour-field with action painting, here.
Pop Art: celebrating popular culture
While Abstract Expressionism explored the depths of the human psyche, Pop Art emerged as a response to the consumerist society and mass media saturation of the 1950s and 1960s. Pop Art adopted a much more superficial and light-hearted, even humorous, approach to its subjects – I’ve written about the history and evolution of Pop Art here.
The rise of Pop Art
Pop Art drew inspiration from everyday life and popular culture. Artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Claes Oldenburg celebrated mass-produced objects, advertisements, and celebrity icons, blurring the boundaries between high art and popular culture. They employed vibrant colours, bold imagery and techniques borrowed from commercial art to create visually striking and accessible works that reflected the spirit of the times.
The philosophical shift of Pop Art
Pop Art was a departure from the emotional intensity of Abstract Expressionism. It adopted an ironic and detached approach, commenting on the commodification of art and the impact of consumer culture. Through their works, Pop Artists sought to challenge traditional notions of art, provoke critical discussions about society and question the boundaries between high and low culture.
Contrasting philosophies: Abstract Expressionist emotion vs. Pop Art irony
The philosophical foundations of Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art diverged significantly, showcasing the diverse paths that art can take in response to a changing world.
The emotional depths of Abstract Expressionism
Abstract Expressionism sought to evoke emotions and explore the depths of the human psyche. Artists delved into their subconscious and utilised spontaneous, expressive brushwork to convey raw emotions and the complexities of the human condition
Jackson Pollock’s revolutionary drip technique and Mark Rothko’s ethereal colour fields became iconic representations of this movement’s emotional intensity.
The playful irony of Pop Art
In contrast, Pop Art employed irony and detachment to comment on consumerism, mass media and the nature of art itself. Artists like Andy Warhol, with his iconic screen-printed images of celebrities and Campbell’s soup cans and Roy Lichtenstein, known for his comic book-inspired artworks, helped pioneer the movement.
Warhol and Lichtenstein used the tools of popular culture to critique societal values and challenge the status quo. Claes Oldenburg, who transformed everyday objects into larger-than-life sculptures, was another key Pop Art figure. Pop Art embraced the mundane and the mass-produced, infusing it with a playful and sometimes satirical twist.
Enduring legacies and artistic evolution
Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art left indelible marks on the art world, influencing subsequent generations of artists and shaping the trajectory of contemporary art.
Influential artists and their legacies
Abstract Expressionism’s legacy can be seen in the works of artists who expanded upon the movement’s techniques and principles. Helen Frankenthaler, through her ground-breaking “stain” technique, pushed the boundaries of abstraction and colour. Joan Mitchell’s energetic and gestural brushwork echoed the spirit of Abstract Expressionism. These artists carried the torch of emotional expression and abstract exploration into the future.
Pop Art’s influence continues to reverberate through contemporary art. Artists like Jeff Koons, known for his glossy and oversized sculptures, Damien Hirst, who challenges the boundaries of art and commerce are two contemporary pop artists. Takashi Murakami, whose vibrant and cartoonish creations blur the lines between fine art and popular culture, has also been influenced by the Pop Art movement.
These artists continue to explore and redefine the relationship between art, consumerism, and society, carrying forward the legacy of Pop Art into the 21st century.
Fusing Abstract Expressionism with Pop Art: developing my By Kerwin ‘Action Portrait’ style
Through my own brand of artwork – my range of colourful music and pop culture icons captured in a Jackson Pollock-inspired action painting style – I fuse these two contrasting art movements. When I was developing my ideas and style, I was drawn to the unique contrast between these two styles of art: one full of abstract chaos and the other full of clean lines and consumerist imagery.
My merger of an Action Painting technique with a contemporary and clean Pop Art style is a unique approach to painting in the art world. I am very proud to have pioneered my own novel style of artwork. The contrast of these two styles – captured in each of my portrait paintings – immediately draws viewers, whether my art is being viewed in person or online. The bold, vibrant colours and poignant poses of my celebrities further captivate my art audiences.
What’s more, you can watch the Behind-the-Scenes time-lapse videos of my paintings to see them come to life, here. All of my paintings are available as prints in various sizes from £35 from my online shop, www.bykerwin.com. Fast, worldwide delivery is available. These stylish print editions add an instant injection of colour to any wall or home. Who is your favourite painting of mine?
Conclusion: Abstract Expressionism V Pop Art
In the clash between Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art, we witness the divergent paths that art can take in response to the changing world. Abstract Expressionism delved into the depths of emotion and introspection, while Pop Art celebrated the everyday and challenged societal norms. Both movements left lasting impacts on the art world, influencing subsequent generations of artists and shaping contemporary art’s trajectory.
As we reflect on the legacies of these two influential movements, we appreciate the vast possibilities of artistic expression. Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art represent the expansive spectrum of art, from the introspective and emotional to the playful and ironic. These contrasting movements continue to ignite discussions, captivate audiences and inspire artists to explore new realms of creativity.
So, whether you find solace in the emotional depths of an Abstract Expressionist canvas or delight in the irony of a Pop Art masterpiece, remember that art is a reflection of our world’s complexities, contradictions, and transformative power. Embrace the clash of these art titans, celebrate their differences and embark on your own artistic journey, drawing inspiration from the profound emotional depths of Abstract Expressionism or the playful irony of Pop Art.
Art is a vibrant and ever-evolving entity, continuously reflecting and challenging our society and the human experience. Let the clash of Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art inspire you to explore, appreciate, and create as you contribute to the ongoing tapestry of artistic evolution.
Do you prefer Abstract Expressionism of Pop Art? Choose your favourite By Kerwin print today to get the best of both worlds!
View my full range of Jackson Pollock-inspired pop art paintings and prints of your favourite music and pop culture icons at www.bykerwin.com. High-definition printing, fast worldwide delivery and satisfaction guaranteed. You can follow my art progress on Instagram and Facebook.
