Contemporary Art in Historical Terms
Definition and Chronology Contemporary art, in historical terms, generally refers to art produced from the mid-20th century-most commonly after 1945 or the 1970s-up to the present day
. It succeeds modern art, which is typically defined as art made from the late 19th century to around 1945 or the 1970s
. The exact starting point is debated: some art historians place its beginning just after World War II, while others mark the 1960s, coinciding with the rise of movements like Pop Art
Period| Approximate Dates| Key Characteristics
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Modern Art| 1860s–1970s| Shift from realism to abstraction; innovation in form
and technique
Contemporary Art| 1945/1970s–present| Emphasis on current issues, diversity of
media, breaking traditional boundaries
Characteristics
- Temporal Context : Contemporary art is defined more by its time of creation than by a specific style or movement. It is "art of today," reflecting the present moment and often engaging with current social, political, and cultural issues
- Diversity of Media and Approach : It includes a wide range of mediums-painting, sculpture, photography, video, installation, digital art, and more-and is marked by experimentation and innovation
- Break from Tradition : Contemporary art is characterized by a conscious break from the conventions of both classical and modern art, often questioning or rejecting established artistic canons
- Global and Pluralistic : The field is notably global, encompassing diverse perspectives and practices, and is less tied to Western art historical narratives than previous periods
Historical Significance
- Reflecting and Shaping Society : Contemporary art is seen as a mirror to the crises, contradictions, and complexities of modern society. It often serves as a platform for critique, commentary, and engagement with reality as experienced by artists and their communities
- Institutional and Market Influence : The rise of contemporary art as a distinct category is tied to changes in the art market and institutional structures, especially since the 1970s and 1980s
- Not Just Chronology : While the term "contemporary" literally means "of the same time," in art history it has come to denote a specific period and set of practices that are distinct from earlier eras
Summary Historically, contemporary art refers to the art made from the mid-20th century to the present, characterized by its engagement with current issues, diversity of media, and a break from traditional art forms. It is both a chronological and conceptual category, reflecting the evolving concerns and technologies of its time
