The Most Famous Modern Art Forms

Abstract Art

Abstract art has a dream-like quality that portrays the world through imagery that often features objects and shapes which initially appear recognisable yet are simultaneously distorted so that the viewer sees something more than what they first view.

When this art form began appearing in the late 19th century it coincided with a changing society thanks to the rise of the industrial era and the new technology that appeared and made the once familiar world around suddenly appear strangely unusual. The French artist Robert Delaunay and German painter were two of the most revered artists of the Abstract style.

Cubism

Cubism was a movement of the 20th century which completely altered the perception of European painting and sculpture. It slowly evolved through several different branches of interpretation, from the early French 'Analytic Cubism' to the later, more popular 'Synthetic Cubism'.

Cubist art features objects and images that are altered and often reformed to create numerous interpretative possibilities dependent upon what the viewer feels they are witnessing. It is a frequent trait of Cubist art that the images depicted are distorted via odd angles that create a misleading sense of space that leaves an almost depthless quality to the artwork. Spanish artist, Pablo Picasso was by far the movement's most famous face.

Surrealism

Surrealism was a movement that began through painting but soon became part of all kinds of other artistic mediums, from photography to film. This often resulted in art that divided critics and audiences through what was sometimes disturbing imagery intended to shock audiences.

Lead by Andre Breton, the surrealist movement was no accident, it was designed to be revolutionary and disrupt the conventional tastes of the bourgeoisie. Surrealism evolved from the Dada art movement after the First World War and frequently had political agendas that hoped to result in actual change in government, such as Salvador Dali's controversial painting, 'The Enigma of Hitler'.

Impressionism

Impressionism was a movement that originated during the late 19th-century in Paris. It is now regarded as one of the most important movements of all time, but when first introduced, it found little respect from most art lovers as it was considered too much of an alternative to conventional tastes.

The Impressionist style of art was known for its distinctive style of painting which boasted a minimal yet effective use of brush strokes and angles which created a new visual interpretation of what was generally familiar subject matter. These stylistic traits created a unique effect that appeared to reflect the passage of time for an almost photographic visual scenario. Claude Monet was the key artist of the movement.

With history full of so many great artists, we often forget that there are great visionaries among us now. The Other Art Fair is a twice-yearly event held in London that showcases the finest new artistic talent in the world who might become the next major artists. The second event of 2013 is taking place from October 17-20. If you want to experience the best of contemporary art, this is an unmissable occasion.

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