The Difference Between Modern and Contemporary Art

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Modern and Contemporary Art 

Modern art and contemporary art have much to offer but each have their own distinct aesthetic. While modern art has been around for centuries and often features traditional materials and methods, contemporary art is more of a postmodern response to what has come before. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between modern and contemporary art and explore how each has shaped the world of art we know today.

What Makes Modern Art Unique 

Modern art is defined as the artistic style that began in the late 1800s and ended in the early 1950s. It was a period of transition between traditional art styles, such as classical art and Renaissance art, and the emergence of newer ones. Modern art is characterized by abstract elements, bright colors, and abstract expressionism. It employs cubism, fauvism, and surrealism to represent the world in a new and creative way.

Common Features of Modern Art 

•Negative spaces, flat shapes, and geometric lines
• A focus on the formal elements of line, shape, and color
• Emphasis on structure and stability
• Muted, earthy tones and a limited color palette
• A blend of painting, sculpture, photography and other new and experimental art forms
• Dynamic compositions and vibrant textures
• Focus on portraying current social and political issues

Examples of Modern Art: 

• Vincent van Gogh’s “The Starry Night”
• Pablo Picasso’s “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon”
• Tal-Coat’s “La Dérive”
• Kandinsky’s “Squares with Concentric Circles”
• Matisse’s “The Dance”
• Dali’s “The Persistence of Memory”

What Makes Contemporary Art Unique 

Contemporary art, in contrast to modern art, emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s. While modern art was focused on the pastel color palettes and thick brushstrokes, contemporary art went in the opposite direction, often featuring vibrant colors, experimental materials and techniques, and bold abstract shapes. It was a period of experimentation which embraced new aspects of art and shifted the focus from traditional methods.

Common Features of Contemporary Art: 

• Images with a mix of realism and abstraction
• Use of digital media such as photography, video, and animation
• An emphasis on figures and personal stories
• A desire to explore and express complex feelings or experiences
• Strong juxtapositions between materials or elements
• Incorporating everyday objects and materials
• A focus on cultural issues, such as identity, gender, and sexuality

Examples of Contemporary Art: 

• Tracey Emin’s “My Bed”
• Yayoi Kusama’s “Infinity Mirrors”
• Jeff Koons’ “Balloon Dog”
• Cindy Sherman’s “Untitled #96”
• Damien Hirst’s “The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living”
• Marina Abramović’s “The Artist is Present”

Differences Between Modern and Contemporary Art 

Though both modern and contemporary art are creative expressions, there are several differences in style, technique, and formation that differentiate the two.

Modern Art: 

• Focuses on past events and feelings
• Incorporates traditional mediums such as painting and sculpture
• Tones are more muted and earthy
• Expressive yet structured compositions
• Exploration of current social and political issues

Contemporary Art: 

• Explores current experiences
• Features experimental techniques, materials, and digital media
• Bright and expressive colors
• Unconventional juxtaposition and materials
• Exploration of cultural issues

Modern art and contemporary art are two distinct artistic styles with unique characteristics. Modern art is a traditional style characterized by muted earthy tones and structured compositions. On the other hand, contemporary art is a postmodern response which explores current experiences and utilizes experimental materials and techniques. Together, these two art forms offer viewers interesting perspectives on the world and insight into the creative process.

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