The Philosophy of Modern Art and Abstract Expressionism

The PBS show Simon Schuma’s Power Of Art is really fantastic. The recent episode discussed abstract expressionist Mark Rothko. (the show is not just about modern art.) I found the episode really enlightening. Does anyone else besides me think that abstract art can be one of the most open-ended expressive platforms that exists? Reflections of the soul, energy portals, mystical expression, meditation, formation of a new visual language, the list goes on and on.

I was reading an article by Vivienne Westwood (famous ‘Punk’ fashion designer) recently where she dissed on abstract art. It’s always hilarious to me how non-painters always have such a self-important view on painting, for some good laughs check out the rest of her manifesto here: (Vivienne Westwood’s manifesto) Although I could not disagree with her more, it did get me thinking. Here is a snippet from it talking about abstract art:

“And abstract art? An abstract that represents no object! And revels in subjectivity. Academic, it’s all in the mind – the painter’s mind. Unfortunately we are not all mind readers, and the work gives us no clue. He may think he’s discovered the secret of the universe! He will take it to his grave. There is no common ground on which artist and art lover can come together, because there is no objectivity – no control of the imagination.”

I find her viewpoint surprisingly narrow-minded and frankly rather short-sighted and ignorant. Although for those familiar with artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, this relates to one of his points on the subject. Part of a neo-expressionist movement, he rallied (me paraphrasing him) against academic, abstract expressionist, minimalist works devoid of emotion, calling them clinical, etc. But I would say Basquiat’s work travels well into the realm of subjectivity that Westwood is so quick to dismiss.

I see abstract expressionism and modern art in general in a different way. In the 20th century the artist starts to be more concerned with the process of creating the art than necessarily the final product. The process becomes the art and the question what is art? becomes vitally important. When you erase any traces of representation or figurative expression or intention even, it creates a platform of creation on an entirely new level. Something completely new, an entirely fresh perspective automatically. New symbols, new language; endless possibilities. An almost mystical expression of philosophy. An insight into the mind of the artist and perhaps mankind in general.

As previously stated, in a lot of modern art the process plays a vital role. Knowing the history and thoughts of the artist can be fascinating and facilitate your enjoyment of the art, but the raw emotion evoked when you view a work of art can be just as powerful wether representational or nonrepresentational methods were used to create it.