Styles & Periods

Styles & Periods

Minimalism

Minimalism developed out of a reaction to modernism and its emphasis on the painting. Instead, by reducing their field of vocabulary to only the most essential components, minimal artists, quite often sculptors, reintroduced the importance of shape. The illusion inherent in Old Masters’ works and the emotional expression of paintings in the 1950s was discarded by the minimalists, in favor of the supremacy and timelessness of objects in their environments. The minimalist movement stems from several moments in the history of art. The abstract geometry of Kazimir Malevich, the machine-like forms of Constantine Brancusi, and the Spatialism of Lucio Fontana all contributed to artists working within minimalist ideals. Some leaders include sculptors Carl Andre, Tony Smith, Donald Judd, and painters Frank Stella and Ellsworth Kelly. In traditional painting, the presence of a human hand and a personal vision are often evident. In Minimalism, modules of color, shape or materials are used to build the artwork, resulting in a finished product that is free from overt narrative.


Some Artists In This Style
Feeling inspired? Try out these fine products…

From $19.99

The Art for Joy's Sake Journal

by Schiffer Publishing

The perfect way to add creative spirit to your watercolor.

At Least 39% Off

At Least 29% Off

Technograph Pencils

by Caran d'Ache

Explore the full range of black shades!

From $2.36

Up to 40% Off

Creative Studio Getting Started Drawing & Sketching Set

by Faber-Castell

Premium drawing set to learn basic techniques

Up to 41% Off

Latest Product Reviews
I have been using the plastic bottle and metal tips for years on gourds for a fine line and perfect dots. I am conducting a class and need more bottles/tips so there will be no waiting to share.
- Sally in Idaho
Very good quality. Exactly what I was looking for.
- Magnifier with light in New York
exactly what I was looking for and great service.
- Grandma Sally in Montana
Free Download for Kids

Download free coloring book pages Download FREE coloring
book pages to color at
home or school.

View Pages »