History of Modern Art 1870 - 1970 - Essay Example

History of Modern Art Modern art refers to the work that was produced between 1870 and 1970. Modern artists disregarded any traditions associated with Renaissance so as to experiment new forms of artistic. In addition to using new materials, modern art involved use of new techniques of painting and developmentof new theories on how art should be perceived by the world (Modern Art, 2015). In tandem with this assertion, majority of the art critics argue that modernism in painting got its root from a Frenchman Claude Monet in 1873.

This is evidenced by his loose handling of paint in addition to his focus on light as well as atmosphere in the landscape scene which are the main characteristics of Impressionism. Impressionism is regarded the first modern movement (Modern Art, 2015). Apart from Monet’s work, the works by Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Camille Pissarro are referred to as modern art. The modern art however can be traced to the period of Industrial Revolution that took place between 18th and 19th century. During this period, rapid changes took place in not only manufacturing and transportation sector, but also technology significantly affected social, economic as well as cultural conditions of life.

In addition to this, Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood is also associated with modernism because it rejected traditional academic forms of not only 18th, but also 19th century. Other modern art movements include post impressionism, expressionism, fauvism, cubism, Dadaism, surrealism, pop art, abstract expressionism, and minimalism. Modern art prevailed for over 100 years. In tandem with the definition of modern art, the word “modern” was originally used to refer to contemporary typographic styles.

It is characterized by the most recent techniques, equipment, or ideas. For instance, invention of social media, Reference Modern Art. (2015). Retrieved from http://www.theartstory.org/definition-modern-art.htm