Masterminds and multiculturalism: The movements’ key figures
As the movement gained momentum, it began to move the dial of what art was and how it should be created. The bold, unapologetic approach of Abstract Expressionist artists opened up new possibilities for artistic expression and paved the way for generations to follow.
These pioneering artists included Jackson Pollock, known for his “drip painting” technique (a technique first created by artist Janet Sobel); Willem de Kooning, famed for his powerful brushstrokes and bold use of colour; and Mark Rothko, a leading figure in the Colour Field branch, who focused on the emotional impact of colour and form.
Other artists such as Norman Lewis, Lee Krasner, and Helen Frankenthaler greatly contributed their unique vision and style, enriching the movement exponentially.
In the UK, artists like Francis Bacon and Frank Auerbach adopted aspects of the movement while infusing their art with a distinctly British sensibility. This fusion of styles led to the emergence of a vibrant and dynamic art scene, which continues to thrive today.
Across Europe, artists such as Antoni Tàpies and Pierre Soulages incorporated the movement’s ideas into their work, paving the way for new artistic movements like Art Informel and Tachisme.
Further afield, the Abstract Expressionism reached Asia and the Middle East, influencing artists like Wook-kyung Choi, Li Fang and Behjat Sadr.
This multicultural pull of Abstract Expressionism lay in its ability to tap into powerful emotions and encourage introspection. With its core principles of emotion and individuality, the movement created a welcoming space for artists from all backgrounds to find a sense of unity.
