In our perception-driven world, we often confine reality to what meets our gaze, and we are inclined to disregard anything that contradicts our outlook. This inclination is not only personal but also societal. Art, over the course of millennia, has borne the brunt of this predisposition. Countless exceptional artists, akin to Vincent Van Gogh, likely remain obscured in the annals of history because they dared to challenge convention. Modern art, quite possibly the most significant endeavor in human history to upend the stifling conventions that have shackled art for ages, emerged in response to this conundrum. The results of this rebellion were nothing short of astounding.
What Exactly Constitutes Modern Art?
The term "modern art" primarily denotes art produced from the 1860s to the 1970s. Nevertheless, the term can also describe any contemporary artwork characterized by exceptional creativity, as it is intrinsically associated with the liberty of thought and expression. It exemplifies the remarkable divergence of human thought when unshackled and fully expressed. Modern art concerns itself more with one's perspective on a subject than with the subject itself.
Why Modern Art?
In the era of modernity, objectivity has evolved into an essential aspect not only of science and mathematics but of our daily existence as well. Modern art, with its conspicuous subjectivity, harmoniously complements this objectivity. However, the ceaseless influence of daily life often ensnares our minds in a pseudo-objective realm, causing us to forget that objectivity itself is just another perspective. In such moments, modern art comes to our aid. But before we can truly understand it, we must learn the art of non-objectivity. We must fathom modern art by not attempting to fathom it.
Four Essential Concepts to Grasp About Modern Art Before Diving In
1. Subjectivity Reigns Supreme
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, machines began replacing humans at an accelerated pace. This transformation also extended to the realm of art. With the advent of cameras and printing, traditional art forms like painting seemed to be under threat. However, like a wild animal running at its fastest when pursued, so did art thrive in the face of danger. In brief, to ensure its survival, art completely discarded its former principles of objectivity and wholeheartedly embraced subjectivity. Each artist aspired to be unique, yet none wished to relinquish the depth and complexity that makes a work of art so intriguing. Although modern art is categorized into various movements and styles, the work of each artist tends to be profoundly distinct from the work of every other artist.
2. It Need Not Carry Meaning
When one contemplates it, what exactly is "meaning"? We often endeavor to simplify our profound perceptions for the sake of others' comprehension. In reality, this notion of meaning is a linguistic illusion. For example, when we use words like "jealousy" or "love," each person experiences these emotions differently, yet we employ the same words to express these feelings. To break free from the confines of meaning that have restrained creativity for centuries, modern artists liberated their expressions as much as possible. Their works resemble emotions—they are meant to be felt. Extracting a specific meaning from them may prove impossible because they might lack inherent meaning to begin with.
3. Popularity Doesn't Guarantee Quality
Modern art underscores the significance of individuality. This principle applies not only to artists but also to viewers. The fact that a painting garners hundreds of millions of dollars in a sale does not obligate you to appreciate it. Everyone possesses unique tastes. You need not admire an artist merely because someone who introduced you to their work does. Conversely, if you encounter a lesser-known artist whose work resonates with you, it does not imply that your taste is substandard; it simply means you possess distinct tastes, which are perfectly valid.
4. Unlocking the Enigma: There's No Hidden Key
For those well-versed in detective novels and mystery films, here is an essential point to grasp. Regardless of how intricate a piece of modern art may appear, there is often no concealed key. There is no need to assume a particular stance or ponder specific ideas while gazing at it to unravel its depth. Although some modern artists, like Octavio Ocampo, create works that morph when one concentrates on them, such artists are a rarity, and their works are exceptions to the rule.
How to understand modern Art
1. Witness the Artwork in a Museum (Not on Your Phone)
Even if you adorn your phone's wallpaper with a work of art and glimpse at it daily, it fails to convey the impression that the original artwork might evoke. In our digital age, complete collections of an artist's works can be downloaded with a mere click, allowing you to breeze through portfolios and hastily acquaint yourself with an artist in minutes. This is the modus operandi for many. While this approach is acceptable in the absence of museum accessibility, we recommend that you seize the opportunity to visit a museum if one is within reach.
Observing an artwork in its original setting allows you to scrutinize the artist's brushstrokes and color choices. Even the most advanced digital cameras cannot capture the authentic brilliance of a work of art. Furthermore, most online images of artworks undergo digital editing to enhance their visual appeal. Thus, the most authentic way to appreciate a work of modern art is to examine it in a museum, for it represents the artist's original vision and not the interpretation of an intermediary photographer or photoshopper.
2. Abandon the Need for Comprehension; Just Observe
Were you aware that Vincent Van Gogh regarded his paintings as music? He even described his renowned work 'Sunflowers in a Vase' as a symphony in blue and yellow. While you need not equate every painting with musical notes on paper, Van Gogh makes a valid point. When we listen to music, especially classical or instrumental, we do not seek to decipher it; we merely listen and appreciate it. Modern art is designed to be approached with the same sense of wonder.
3. Allocate Time to Each Artwork
Upon entering a museum, refrain from imposing an arbitrary deadline on yourself to rush through and depart within an hour. If time is limited, focus on fewer artworks but do not deny each piece the time it deserves. Most works of modern art possess considerable depth. Examining them for an extended duration may unveil additional layers. Moreover, because we may not share the same space and era with the artist, a thorough examination of their artworks can transport us into their world.
4. Relax; Don't Overanalyze
Many of us harbor grand ideas about life that we consider paramount. We not only believe that our lives adhere to these ideas, but we also strive to discern reflections of these ideas in anything we hold in high regard. At times, when grappling with something enigmatic, these ideas come to our aid. For example, some may praise an artwork by commending the artist's unwavering commitment and determination in the face of adversity. While such praise is certainly commendable, we should not dwell on these notions while observing the artwork, as they may hinder our understanding.
5. Read About the Artwork
Irrespective of whether the realm of interest lies in music, painting, or literature, the practice of delving into the context of a work of art can be remarkably advantageous. In this pursuit, it is paramount to focus on the objective facts rather than relying on the subjective opinions of others, as the latter can often prove misleading. Essential details such as the geographical origin of the artwork, the time period in which it was created, and the prevailing socio-political climate are invaluable assets in comprehending the essence of the piece.
Moreover, drawing parallels between one's current environment and the historical backdrop against which the artist worked can significantly enhance the likelihood of arriving at an accurate interpretation of their creations.
6. Get to Know the Artist
One can discern a glimpse of an individual's beliefs from their words. The world of art is no exception to this rule. While some artists are acutely aware of their beliefs and intentionally shape their creations in alignment with their convictions, others remain in the dark about their own beliefs until they surface from the depths of their subconscious through their creative works.
In both scenarios, delving into the life of the artist can prove invaluable in unraveling the intended meaning of their artwork. Furthermore, some artworks may reveal facets of the artist's mental state, shedding light on any underlying mental illnesses they may have endured. Acquiring this knowledge in advance could offer fresh perspectives and enhance our understanding of the intricate landscapes of human consciousness.
7. Comprehend Art Movements
As you embark on your quest to decipher the enigma of modern art, you will inevitably encounter the concept of art movements. Terms such as Expressionism, Cubism, and Postmodernism may start to fill your lexicon. Upon deep reflection, especially when applied to specific artworks, these terms may initially appear ambiguous and devoid of meaning. Yet, they can become valuable tools for grasping the works of particular time periods.
In essence, art movements function much like fashion trends. By comprehending these movements, you gain insight into how people of a given era perceived the world or aspired to view it. This knowledge equips you to distinguish between fleeting trends and genuine creativity.
8. Trust Your Own Judgment
Modern art, for the most part, is an intensely personal experience, and thus, your judgment of it should remain equally personal. While you might need to articulate your judgment more accessibly for others, don't relinquish it. Avoid seeking validation for your unique experience by comparing it to that of others. Your belief in your interpretation should remain steadfast. It is perfectly acceptable if no one else shares your viewpoint, as this signifies your distinct perspective. This is the message modern art conveys—we are all uniquely different, and that, in itself, is a wondrous facet of our existence.