Modernism and Postmodernism / “High” and “Low” Art
Art movements have always naturally, involved an element of controversy. The purpose of art is to evoke some sort of emotion; therefore it is inevitable that controversy would arise along with different movements. Modernism and postmodernism cover artists’ styles dating back to the 1930’s, and up until the present. The artists that were involved in these movements all have very diverse thinking, use of presentation, and differences in how they create a piece of artwork. Both modernism and postmodernism artists work consist of both “high” and “low” pieces of art.
Modernism was an art period that consisted of minimalism and conceptualism. It was an emphasis on fragmented forms, and random collages, images, and the use of different materials. Modernism contained an importance of impressionism and subjectivity, and also rejected “high” and “low” art by the way materials were used, and how the work was displayed. The artists of the modernist movement were rejecting previous renaissance- based traditions and began to favor new forms of artistic expression.
Postmodernism began in the late twentieth century, and began to oppose the modernist concentration on form and technique. The goal of postmodernism was more focused on getting rid of the divisions between popular culture, art, and media. Post modern art was more concerned with realism, and the artists were more concerned with expressing their thoughts and desires. Two common examples of movements that are associated with postmodernism are minimalism and conceptualism. Postmodernism challenged the idea of fine art, and promoted drastic change, while trying to break free from the design of modernism.
Both modernism and postmodernism reject the boundaries between “high” and “low” art forms. “High” art or fine art is that of universal transcendence. It represents the epitome of artistic achievement, and has withstood the test of time. “High” art not only looks at art with fresh eyes, but it challenges the viewers thinking, causing the viewer to stop and look. It holds a lasting impact, and changes the idea of what art can be. “Low” art on the other hand, doesn’t challenge ones thinking, but instead is easier to comprehend. It is known more as mass culture, and seen as somewhat an advertisement of the artist’s ego. It is simply done because it craves attention, and looks to shock the viewer, whereas “high” art is seem more as a gift to humankind.
Modernism is exemplified perfectly in the use of font. In the movie, Helvetica it shows how a simple typeface can greatly affect people, and how they view things. The movie was based on typography, and global visual culture. Helvetica is used commonly in the world of design and advertising. It was created with the intent to be written clearly, without distraction, and easy to read, while still being able to grab the attention of its viewers. This would fall under the category of “low” art. A fine example of postmodernism is “Fountain” by Marcel Duchamp. This became of piece of “high” art, due to its ability to challenge the viewer to think about the piece. He took an ordinary object and turned it into a piece of artwork.
It can be very difficult sometimes to distinguish between modernism and postmodernism, as well as “high” and “low” art. Over the years the definitions and differences have become somewhat blurred, but many have definite opinions regarding the matter. Sometimes distinguishing the difference really comes down to a matter of opinion. “High” and “low” art can be seen in both modernism and postmodernism, and all contain very similar concepts. I guess the statement holds true; art is truly in the eyes of the beholder.
danajm722 