Abstract Expressionism

Abstract Expressionism is an art movement that evolved from German Expressionism and grew in America during the 1940’s, specifically in New York City. The work was first associated with a very small group of artists, often referred to simply as ‘The Abstract Expressionists’ or ‘The New York School’. The term is applied to art works that appear spontaneous; characterized by dynamic and improvised mark making. The work goes against conventional forms in art and despite subject matter will consistently favour highly abstract imagery.

The Painting shown is Improvisation 27 (Garden of Love II) by Wassily Kandinsky. The term was first applied by Alfred Barr in relation to Kandinsky's work in 1929.