About geometric abstraction
Geometric
abstraction is a form of abstract
art based on the use of geometric forms sometimes, though not
always, placed in non-illusionistic
space and combined into non-objective (non-representational)
compositions. Throughout 20th-century art historical discourse,
critics and artists working within the reductive
or pure strains of abstraction have often suggested that geometric
abstraction represents the height of a non-objective art practice,
which necessarily stresses or calls attention to the root plasticity
and two-dimensionality of painting as an artistic medium. Thus, it
has been suggested that geometric abstraction might function as a
solution to problems concerning the need for modernist painting to
reject the illusionistic practices of the past while addressing the
inherently two dimensional nature of the picture plane as well as the
canvas functioning as its support. Wassily
Kandinsky, one of the forerunners of pure non-objective painting,
was among the first modern artists to explore this geometric approach
in his abstract work. Other examples of pioneer abstractionists such
as Kasimir
Malevich and Piet
Mondrian have also embraced this approach towards abstract
painting.
However, geometric abstraction cannot
only be seen as an invention of 20th century avant-garde
artists or movements. It is present among many cultures throughout
history both as decorative motifs and as art pieces themselves.
Islamic art,
in its prohibition of depicting religious figures, is a prime example
of this geometric pattern-based art, which existed centuries before
the movement in Europe and in many ways influenced this Western
school. Aligned with and often used in the architecture of Islamic
civilations spanning the 7th century-20th century, geometric patterns
were used to visually connect spirituality with science and art, both
of which were key to Islamic thought of the time.
Abstract art has also historically been likened to music
in its ability to convey emotional or expressive feelings and ideas
without reliance upon or reference to recognizable objective forms
already existent in reality. Wassily
Kandinsky has discussed this connection between music and
painting, as well as how the practice of classical composition had
influenced his work, at length in his seminal essay Concerning the
Spiritual in Art.
Expressionist abstract painting, as practiced by artists such as
Jackson
Pollock, Franz
Kline, Clyfford
Still, and Wols,
represents the opposite of geometric abstraction.
