Abstract Expressionism

The Sublime and the Spiritual

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Questions

Can art evoke emotion?

What techniques or strategies can artists use to represent or evoke emotion?

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Take a close look at Vir Heroicus Sublimis, by Barnett Newman…

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Barnett Newman. Vir Heroicus Sublimis. 1950 – 51

• What words would you use to describe this painting?

• What stylistic choices did the artist make in terms of color, composition, and subject?

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

• How does the title relate to what you see?

• How might the painting’s large scale relate to the title?

Barnett Newman. Vir Heroicus Sublimis. 1950 – 51

Let’s look at No. 16 (Red, Brown, and Black), by Mark Rothko

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

• What do you notice about his choice of color?

• How would you describe the brushwork?

• What emotions do these colors and composition evoke?

• What effect do you think Rothko hoped to create?

Mark Rothko. No. 16 (Red, Brown, and Black). 1958

Questions

Can the process of making art be a spiritual act?

Can viewing art be a spiritual experience?

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Barnett Newman. Vir Heroicus Sublimis. 1950 – 51

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Louise Nevelson. Sky Cathedral. 1958

MoMA Abstract Expressionism

Mark Rothko. No. 16 (Red, Brown, and Black). 1958

MoMA Abstract Expressionism