abstract-expressionism
/ˌæb.strækt ɪkˈsprɛʃ.ən.ɪ.zəm/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A style of modern art made with shapes, colours, and strong brushstrokes, not clear pictures of real objects. It focuses on feeling, movement, and the artist's expression.
- We studied abstract expressionism in art class.
- Her painting shows clear signs of abstract expressionism.
- The gallery has several abstract expressionism works.
Adinary Nuance
Abstract expressionism is not the same as abstract art in general. Abstract art can be any non-realistic art, but abstract expressionism usually means the mid-20th-century style linked to emotion and bold gesture. Writers use this term when they want to name that specific art movement, not just any abstract painting.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Chủ nghĩa biểu hiện trừu tượng
- Spanish
- Expresionismo abstracto
- Chinese
- 抽象表现主义
- Japanese
- 抽象表現主義
- Korean
- 추상표현주의
Etymology
The term came from mid-20th-century art criticism, especially in the United States. It combines abstract and expressionism to describe art that is non-representational but emotionally expressive.
Common phrases
abstract expressionism movementabstract expressionism paintingthe abstract expressionism era
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is abstract expressionism the same as abstract art?
- No. Abstract expressionism is a specific movement within abstract art.
- Is abstract expressionism formal or informal writing?
- It is a formal art term, common in essays and museum writing.
- How do I use abstract expressionism in a sentence?
- Say: 'Pollock is linked with abstract expressionism.'
- Is abstract expressionism a common everyday word?
- No. It is mainly used in art study and cultural writing.