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Born out of the Expressionist movement, Abstract Expressionism was considered to be a specifically American, post-World War II artistic movement.  It was the first American art movement which gained a worldwide significance and it transformed New York City into the art capital of the world, taking the title from Paris.  This art movement is derived from the emotional intensity of the traditional Expressionists while drawing from the anti-figurative ideals of abstract schools like Futurism and Cubism.  The movement is felt by many to be rebellious and anarchic; even nihilistic.  Owing to this fact, many critics of Abstract Expressionism have been absolutely polarized.  Some critics treat the art form as not worth their time while others feel that it has been a great contribution to the art world, the epitome of aesthetic value.

Perhaps one of the most famous Abstract Expressionist painters was Jackson Pollock.  His paintings, including the famous No. 5, are recognized all over the world.  Other famous artists include Jane Frank, Franz Kline, and Barnett Newman.  All of these artists have made great contributions to the Abstract Expressionist movement, helping to expand the visual and the philosophical implications that the art form presents.  It believes that any work of art which challenges the viewer is a strong piece and Abstract Expressionists seek to do this in every work they display.

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Where does abstract painting begin? How does a fine artist take an idea or concept and then create what he sees? It’s actually a well thought out process, and takes several steps even though it may not appear so. First the painter has the idea and he may even create a smaller scaled version of the painting, or a concept painting. In the case of abstract art, he may place other materials within the painting, and these may be modeling clay, wire, wire grid work, paper, computer generated images, physical object, anything that gives the painting more emphasis, and meaning.

Then the artist may add some color or what some call an under painting. Some painters use color itself lightly placed and others do it in black and white. The point of an underpainting, even in an abstract is so that the artist can visualize better the composition and bring certain objects to the foreground and others to the background. Underpainting becomes more important in both fantasy art, modern art, and generally for images that come in part or in totality from the imagination. If you take a look at Carol Nelson’s work , you will get a better idea of what is involved.