Contemporary Art ~ History

Contemporary art refers to the art of the present day and is often used to describe art produced since the 1970s. The term “contemporary art” can be somewhat fluid, as it is constantly being reinterpreted and redefined by artists, curators, and art critics.

How it started

In the 1970s and 1980s, contemporary art saw the emergence of a number of new movements, including conceptual art, performance art, and installation art. Conceptual art, which emerged in the 1960s, was focused on the idea behind a work of art rather than the physical object itself. Performance art, which also emerged in the 1960s, involved the participation of the audience in the creative process, often through interactive performances. Installation art, which emerged in the 1970s, involved the creation of immersive, multi-sensory environments that were meant to be experienced by the viewer rather than simply viewed.

In the 1990s and 2000s, contemporary art continued to evolve and diversify, with the emergence of new media such as video art, digital art, and net art. These new forms of art often incorporated elements of technology and new media, and were often created specifically for display on the internet or in digital form.

Contemporary art has also been marked by a number of political and social movements, including feminism, multiculturalism, and environmentalism. Many contemporary artists have used their work to address social and political issues, such as racial inequality, gender and sexual identity, and environmental degradation.

One of the defining characteristics of contemporary art is its global nature. Contemporary art is produced and exhibited all around the world, and artists from a wide range of cultural and artistic backgrounds have made significant contributions to the field. This global nature has also led to a greater diversity of styles and techniques within contemporary art, as artists from different parts of the world have brought their own unique perspectives and influences to the field.

In recent years, contemporary art has also been marked by the increasing influence of social media and the internet. Many contemporary artists have embraced these platforms as a means of reaching a wider audience and promoting their work, and many galleries and museums have also turned to the internet to display and promote contemporary art.

Conclusion:

Overall, contemporary art is a diverse and constantly evolving field that reflects the ideas, concerns, and experiences of artists from around the world. It encompasses a wide range of styles, media, and techniques, and reflects the changing social, political, and cultural landscape of the present day.

By: Sabyasachi