Modern art can accommodate a variety of meanings; therefore, there is no precise definition of the term. This comes as no surprise, as art is a medium constantly evolving — what we consider modern today may not be seen as such in a decade. However, for historical purposes, the years between 1870–1970 are considered the Modern Art period, while Contemporary Art followed from 1970 onwards. The term “Modern Art” is commonly linked with artworks in which old traditions were abandoned in favor of innovation. It was the creative world’s response to the rationalist mindset and technological advances of the Industrial Age, which transformed how society expressed itself compared to the past.
Modernism encompassed a wide range of styles, techniques, and media. Artists sought to depict new realities, emotions, and ideas that reflected rapidly modernizing societies. Because it was not a single cohesive movement, Modern Art included numerous smaller movements — each distinct, yet part of the broader evolution of creativity and thought.
The Origins of Modern Art
To understand the birth of Modern Art, it’s essential to consider its historical context. Art rarely changes overnight — it mirrors the transformations taking place within society. For instance, a work produced in the 1950s might still be considered postmodern if its creator had an innovative perspective. The 19th century was a time of rapid change brought about by the Industrial Revolution. Developments in transport, manufacturing, and technology altered how people lived, worked, and traveled across Europe and America. This era saw the rise of a wealthy entrepreneurial class, a demand for urban architecture, and the founding of many of the world’s greatest museums.
Two developments had a direct impact on the evolution of art during this time. In 1841, American painter John Rand invented the collapsible tin paint tube — allowing artists to paint outdoors. Around the same time, advancements in photography enabled artists to capture scenes for later study. These innovations helped inspire a new style known as Impressionism, which radically changed how artists represented the world. Little did they know, it would become one of the defining movements of Modern Art. A new generation of painters soon emerged, experimenting with themes, materials, and bold methods that would reshape the art world.
The 20th century introduced unprecedented stylistic diversity. Artists began using unconventional materials — from traditional oils on canvas to found objects and industrial elements. These innovations led to radical developments such as conceptual and performance art, expanding the very definition of art to include not just physical objects, but also ideas and actions.
Characteristics of Modern Art
Modern Art spanned nearly a century and embraced dozens of artistic movements — from abstraction to hyperrealism. Given its immense variety, it’s difficult to define through a single lens. However, certain characteristics set it apart from earlier eras.
Use of New Materials
Modern artists often incorporated unconventional objects into their works — such as fragments of newspaper or found items. Sculptors repurposed everyday materials like metal scraps, wood, and glass to create new forms. This innovation gave rise to genres like Junk Art, where even the most ordinary items — cars, clocks, or boxes — were transformed into art.
Expressive Use of Color
Movements such as Fauvism and Expressionism were among the first to experiment boldly with color. Artists used vivid and unconventional palettes to heighten emotional impact and convey personal expression rather than visual accuracy.
Response to Surroundings
Many modern and postmodern artworks depict the contrast between industrial structures and natural landscapes. Artists reflected upon their environments — the changing cityscapes, architecture, and technology — highlighting the tension between progress and tradition.
Symbolism
Symbolism became a key feature of Modern Art, often embedded in both style and subject matter. A single piece might hold multiple interpretations, inviting viewers to look deeper into its meaning.
Value and Self-Expression
Unlike earlier eras, when art’s value was often tied to religious or societal norms, Modern artists created based on self-expression and emotion. They challenged convention, painting what brought them joy or meaning, rather than adhering to external expectations.
Criticism of Modern Art
At its inception, Modern Art faced harsh criticism. Its embrace of experimentation, abstraction, and rebellion against tradition was met with disbelief and outrage. Yet, over time, it became the foundation of institutional and cultural change. Ironically, the very movement that began as a rejection of rules eventually became part of the establishment — giving rise to Postmodernism, which in turn sought to shatter even those new conventions and redefine artistic freedom once again.
Manesha Peiris (2022)
