How and where did culture influence art movements – An ‘Isms’ Overview

Culture has played a significant role in shaping art movements throughout history. Art movements reflect the values, beliefs, and attitudes of the society in which they emerged, and they are often influenced by the social, political, economic, and intellectual developments of the time.

One example of culture influencing art movements is the Renaissance, which was a period of great cultural and intellectual revival in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century. The Renaissance was marked by a renewed interest in classical art, literature, and philosophy, as well as a growing fascination with humanism and individualism. This cultural context led to the emergence of new art forms, such as perspective, chiaroscuro, and sfumato, as well as new genres, such as portraiture, landscape, and still life.

Another example is the influence of African culture on modern art in the early 20th century. The discovery and appreciation of African masks, sculptures, and textiles by European artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Modigliani led to the development of a new artistic style called Primitivism. This style emphasized simplified forms, bold colours, and expressive gestures, and it had a profound impact on the development of modern art.

Similarly, the social and political changes of the 1960s and 1970s, such as the civil rights movement, the feminist movement, and the anti-war movement, had a significant influence on art movements such as Pop Art, Minimalism, and Conceptual Art. These movements reflected the desire for social and political change, and they used art as a means of expressing political and social critique.

In conclusion, culture has played a critical role in shaping art movements throughout history, and artists have often been influenced by the cultural context in which they live and work. Whether it is the revival of classical art during the Renaissance, the influence of African culture on modern art, or the impact of social and political change on art movements in the 20th century, art has always been closely linked to the culture in which it is produced.