The spelling of "modern art" is fairly straightforward, with two syllables: /ˈmɒdən/ and /ɑːt/. The first syllable has a short "o" sound followed by a schwa, which is the unstressed neutral vowel sound that is pronounced like "uh". The second syllable has the long "a" sound as in "father". Modern art refers to the art produced in the late 19th century up to the 1970s, which was characterized by a departure from traditional themes, styles, and techniques in favor of avant-garde experimentation.
Modern art refers to a broad and diverse range of artistic styles, practices, and movements that emerged during the late 19th century and continued into the 20th century. It is characterized by its departure from traditional notions of artistic representation, and an exploration of new forms, materials, and concepts. Modern art encompassed various movements such as Impressionism, Cubism, Abstract Expressionism, Surrealism, and many others.
At the core of modern art lies a fundamental shift in artistic perspective and a rejection of conventional techniques and subjects. Artists sought to challenge traditional notions of beauty, aesthetics, and societal norms, often experimenting with unconventional techniques and materials. Modern art emphasized individual expression, subjective interpretation, and the artist's subjective experience, encouraging viewers to engage with art in new and diverse ways.
Moreover, modern art often aimed to reflect the dynamism, rapid technological advancements, and cultural changes occurring during this period. The focus shifted from accurately representing the physical world to exploring new ways of conveying emotions, ideas, and the complexities of the human experience. Artists incorporated elements such as abstraction, fragmentation, symbolism, and experimentation to depict their own unique worldview and challenge the established artistic canon.
Overall, modern art is a vast and diverse artistic movement that encompassed a wide range of styles, approaches, and ideologies. It marked a departure from traditional techniques, subjects, and perspectives, instead prioritizing individual expression, experimentation, and new ways of engaging with art.
The word "modern" stems from the Late Latin word "modernus", which means "of the present time" or "recent". It is derived from the Latin term "modus" meaning "measure" or "manner". "Art" originates from the Latin word "ars" which encompasses various definitions, including "art", "skill", "technique", or "craftsmanship". When combined, "modern art" refers to artistic creations that belong to the contemporary or present period.