CONTEMPORARY ART

Abstract Expressionism

Is anti-figurative (does not illustrate a specific subject like a setting or an individual)

Values individuality, freedom of expression, and spontaneity

Although there may not be a solid form, the paintings do depict themes or feelings through colors, shape, line, movement, texture and overall “business”

Can include organic shapes (things found in nature) like circles or squares and can mix vibrant colors with earth tones

Color

Red – anger or love Green – rebirth, invigoration, greed, envy,

wealth Pink – shyness, infatuation Yellow/gold – joy or associated with a

higher power Blue – sadness or calmness Purple – creativity or calmness Black – evil, death, grief White – innocence/purity

Shape

Natural Circle = eternity, cycles, unification Squares = conventional/normal Leaves, petals, hexagons, spirals (shells)

can be integrated The key is to make the shape, if used at

all, seem blurred or abstract (not literal)

Line

Line can cause the eye to move over the page

Line can create texture Line can appeal to the viewer’s

emotions Sharp, jagged lines = violence or danger Soft, flowing lines = tranquility, safety,

comfort

“Passing Circle” by Greg Martin

“Winter Time” by Mira Lisa Schiritas

“Onement, I” by Barnett Newman

“Canticle” and “Sonata” by Mark Tobey

“Yellow and Blue” by Mark Rothko

“Agony” by Gorky

“Contentment” and “Flirt” by Helen Frankenthaler

“Bring Me Spring” by Ritchie Paul Dalto

Assignment Option One – Art Create a piece of art (watercolor, magazine

collage, drawn artwork) that embodies the characteristics of abstract expressionism.

Focus on line, color, and abstract shapes to illustrate the themes or ideas in your sonnet or ode.

Write an explanation that explains how the artwork shows your representation by explaining specific details.

* This method will work best for visual learners

Assignment Option Two - Song Locate and bring in song lyrics that

share similar themes with your sonnet or ode

In your explanation, draw connections between the song and your poem. Focus on theme, rhythm, and mood.

This method is best for auditory learners.

Example of an Explanation

My abstract expressionist piece is reflective of themes and ideas in my poem. The colors I chose were pink and red because these colors represent love and flirtation. I love chocolate, as shown in the line, “Chocolate is my dearest friend.” I also used soft lines to indicate that chocolate is comforting to me; these lines also create texture. The texture in the painting reminds me of the texture of yummy peanut butter.