Expressionism is often associated with intense emotional expression, bold colors, and unconventional techniques. But is Expressionism considered modern art? To answer this question, we need to understand the origins of Expressionism and how it fits into the broader context of modern and contemporary art.

1. What Is Expressionism?

Expressionism is an art movement that emphasizes the portrayal of emotional experiences rather than physical reality. Originating in the early 20th century, it encompasses various art forms, including painting, literature, theater, film, and architecture. Unlike traditional art movements, which focused on realistic depictions of the world, Expressionism was driven by subjective interpretation, inner emotions, and the exploration of the human condition.

Key Features of Expressionism

• Distorted Reality: Expressionist artists used distorted forms and exaggerated colors to convey feelings such as fear, anxiety, and alienation.

• Focus on Emotion: The primary goal of Expressionism is to express the emotional experience of the artist, often in response to the social and political upheavals of the time.

• Abstracted Forms: While some Expressionists used recognizable subjects, many abstracted those subjects to better communicate emotions, leading to a more liberated style of painting.

2. Expressionism and Modern Art: Understanding the Connection

Expressionism is widely considered to be part of modern art, a broad category that encompasses a range of movements that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Modern art is characterized by a deliberate break with traditional artistic conventions, an embrace of experimentation, and a focus on individual expression.

The Role of Expressionism in Modern Art

Expressionism emerged in the early 20th century, at a time when artists were rejecting the traditional, representational styles that had dominated the art world for centuries. It aligns with the goals of modernism, which sought to break free from the constraints of realism and create art that reflected the modern experience.

While movements like Impressionism and Cubism focused on visual experimentation and new ways of seeing the world, Expressionism was more focused on the artist’s emotional response to the world around them. This intense emotional focus made it a precursor to other movements like Abstract Expressionism, which took the emotional and abstract aspects of Expressionism to new heights.

3. Is Contemporary Expressionist Art a Continuation of Modern Art?

Yes, Contemporary Expressionist art is very much a continuation of the ideas and values established by the Expressionist movement. The core principles of Expressionism—emotion, abstraction, and subjectivity—remain present in contemporary art, albeit with new materials and techniques.

The Evolution of Expressionism into Contemporary Art

Contemporary Expressionist artists often focus on the same themes as their predecessors: identity, personal experience, and the human condition. However, they may incorporate new media, such as digital tools or installation art, to express their feelings in ways that weren’t possible during the early years of the movement.

For example, artists like Sébastien Montel continue to explore deep emotional and psychological themes through abstract forms and bold compositions. His Contemporary Expressionist art embodies the same expressive freedom that made early Expressionism so powerful. By using colors and shapes to evoke personal emotions, Montel’s work reflects the ongoing relevance of Expressionism in the modern and contemporary art world.

4. Expressionism in Today’s Art Scene: A Lasting Influence

Expressionism’s legacy is still evident in today’s art world. Many contemporary artists continue to explore its emotional intensity and freedom, blending it with other styles and influences. In fact, Contemporary Expressionist art has evolved into various forms, from abstract and figurative art to more mixed-media experiments. The modern artist has countless tools at their disposal, but the emotional undercurrent of Expressionism remains a central focus.

Buy Expressionist Art Online

If you are looking to buy Expressionist art online, many platforms offer original works that reflect the emotional intensity and abstract qualities of the Expressionist style. Whether you’re searching for paintings, prints, or other forms of visual art, contemporary Expressionist works can be purchased through online galleries and personal websites, like Sébastien Montel’s collection.

5. Conclusion: Expressionism as Modern Art and Its Evolution

Expressionism is undeniably a modern art movement, and its influence continues to shape contemporary art today. While it began in the early 20th century, its emotional, abstract, and subjective qualities make it a vital part of the ongoing evolution of art. From its origins in the works of artists like Edvard Munch and Wassily Kandinsky to the expressionist work of artists like Sébastien Montel, the core principles of Expressionism remain relevant and inspiring.

Whether you’re an art collector, enthusiast, or someone looking to buy expressionist art online, the movement continues to offer valuable insights into the power of emotion and abstraction in art.