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Around the turn of the 20th century, the Modernism movement arose out of the desire to break away from traditional forms of expression and push the boundaries of what art could be. Encompassing a plethora of artists and sub-movements, Modernism expressed itself across every artistic discipline, from architecture to literature to dance – and of course, visual art. To this day, trailblazing modern artists of the past are still inspiring contemporary creators and art enthusiasts through their use of unique techniques, mediums, and subjects.
Perhaps you’ve admired the boldness of a painting full of geometric forms or felt moved by splashes of paint cascading freely across a canvas. This guide provides a brief overview of five of the most iconic modern art movements – Cubism, Fauvism, Surrealism, Abstract Expressionism, and Pop Art – as well as examples from the Copenhagen art collection that show their influence. Though widely recognized, these five movements are far from the only ones, and we encourage anyone interested in modern art to take a deeper dive, find what resonates with you, and bring that art into your space.
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Historical context:
One of the most well-known modern art movements, Cubism was founded by Spanish painter Pablo Picasso and French painter Georges Bracque. Drawing influences from African art and Post-Impressionism, Cubism burst on the scene in 1907-1908, when Picasso unveiled his work Les Demoiselles d’Avignon and Bracque his work Viaduct at L’Estaque. Their fragmented, angular forms caused a stir in the art world and prompted critic Louis Vauxcelles to deem the paintings “bizarreries cubiques” (“cubic oddities”), giving rise to the term Cubism. Though Cubism faded with the start of WWI, it has left an undeniable legacy that still resonates today.
Defining traits:
Well-known artists: Pablo Picasso, Georges Bracque, Juan Gris
Why accessorize with Cubist art?
As one of the most recognizable styles of modern art, Cubism will infuse your interior with an iconic and sophisticated vibe. A Cubist-inspired sculpture like the life-size Modeling Woman adds an edgy yet timeless accent to an indoor or outdoor space, while a contemporary painting like The Seekers will spark conversation with its brightly colored, overlapping faces. For a subtler touch, try a Picasso jacquard pillow like Tete de Femme on your favorite armchair.
Historical context:
Fauvism began in 1905, pioneered by the French painters Henri Matisse and André Derain, who were influenced by prior movements like Post-Impressionism, Impressionism, and Symbolism. The works of Matisse, Derain, and other Fauvists featured colors that were so vivid and intense that they led art critic Louis Vauxcelles to call the artists “fauves” or “wild beasts” – a name which the movement officially adopted until its dissolution in 1910.
Defining traits:
Well-known artists: Henri Matisse, André Derain, Maurice de Vlaminck
Why accessorize with Fauvist art?
If you’re craving a burst of energy and color in your home, Fauvist-inspired art is an ideal choice. Imagine livening up a plain wall with the rainbow of bright brushstrokes in the Sophia portrait or creating a focal point with the jewel tones and semi-abstract landscape of the Revelation painting. Similarly, a floral artwork like Bright Moments II radiates an atmosphere of warmth to add subtle excitement to your surroundings.
Historical context:
One of the art movements that flourished between the World Wars, Surrealism originated in Paris in the early 1920’s and sought to reject the machine-like logic and rationality that members saw as leading to the destruction wrought by WWI. Influenced by Freud’s theories of the unconscious and the absurdism of the Dada movement, Surrealist artists like Salvador Dalí and Joan Miró aimed to blend the conscious mind with the more irrational, fantastical, and primal world of dreams and the subconscious.
Defining traits:
Well-known artists: Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, René Magritte, Frida Kahlo (included in the Surrealist movement by those within, though she did not self-identify as one)
Why accessorize with Surrealist art?
This fascinating style is perfect for those drawn to fantastical, experimental, and unique forms of art. Whether you prefer a more mysterious and edgy aesthetic, or one that is more playful and whimsical, Surrealist-inspired art is sure to ignite your imagination. Try the Paysage Pillow in woven jacquard for a dream-like interpretation of a beach scene or place the Walking Horse Sculpture in your living room or garden to give it a sense of the otherworldly.
Historical context:
Arising in the 1940’s after WWII and enduring until the 1970’s, Abstract Expressionism established New York City as the leading hub of the art world. Abstract Expressionist artists found inspiration in avant-garde European movements like Dada and Surrealism. They also sought artistic conduits for expressing the collective trauma of the war and pushing back against the repressive atmosphere of McCarthyism. Artworks in this style were typically devoid of recognizable figures, instead emphasizing emotional expression, creative freedom, and spontaneity.
Defining traits:
Well-known artists: Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, Willem de Kooning, Helen Frankenthaler
Why accessorize with Abstract Expressionist art?
This iconoclastic style is known for its dynamism and ability to provoke thought. Dramatic or understated, energetic or mellow, Abstract Expressionist-inspired art has a powerful capability to help set the ambiance of a room. For instance, the Opposites Attract painting is bursting with movement and vibrancy, while Playground sets a calmer tone with its hazy brushstrokes. The Bold Moves wall art features gritty textures and layered paint to create visual intrigue.
Historical context:
Initially appearing in Britain, Pop Art migrated to the United States in the 1950’s and bloomed in the next two decades. Short for “popular art,” this movement differentiated itself from traditional “highbrow” art by drawing inspiration from mass media and consumer culture. Buoyed by various activist movements of the 1960’s, Pop artwork was often (though not always) intended to critique or satirize aspects of conventional society, such as consumerism and conformity.
Defining traits:
Well-known artists: Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Keith Haring, Yayoi Kusama
Why accessorize with Pop Art?
Because Pop Art plays with commonly recognizable objects, symbols, or people, it can feel easily accessible and welcoming right away. The playful or satirical tone of Pop Art-inspired works can lend a fun and light-hearted mood to your surroundings. Fans of this style may enjoy the Desert House Party wall art, full of references to retro 50s culture, the Blues Tempo painting featuring the bold silhouette of a guitar, or the whimsical and larger-than-life Kiss Sculpture.
From dreamlike scenes to dramatic uses of color and shape, the umbrella of modern art covers a kaleidoscopic world with a near-endless supply of creativity and innovation. The spirit of modern art is still alive today in the work of countless artists, including those in Copenhagen’s contemporary art and accessory collections. Shop online or stop by in-store to browse and be moved.