Post-world war ii

Definition

Post-World War II refers to the period following the end of World War II in 1945, marked by significant political, social, and cultural changes across the globe. This era saw the emergence of new artistic movements and a reevaluation of traditional artistic conventions, greatly influencing various forms of art, including Outsider Art, which sought to challenge established norms and explore new avenues of expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The end of World War II brought about a shift in societal values, leading to increased interest in personal expression and alternative perspectives in art.
2. Outsider Art gained prominence during this time as artists outside the mainstream began to assert their unique visions, often reflecting personal experiences and psychological depth.
3. Many artists rejected conventional techniques and embraced experimental approaches, resulting in diverse styles that reflected the tumultuous changes of the post-war era.
4. The period also saw the rise of art institutions and exhibitions that focused on showcasing non-traditional artists, further legitimizing Outsider Art as an important movement.
5. Post-World War II was characterized by a greater awareness of mental health issues and marginalized voices, influencing how art was created and perceived in society.

Review Questions

• How did the events following World War II influence the development of Outsider Art?
  • Following World War II, there was a significant shift in cultural values that emphasized individual expression and authenticity. Artists who were not part of the mainstream began to explore personal narratives and emotional depth in their work. This led to the rise of Outsider Art as these creators found new ways to challenge established artistic conventions through innovative techniques and perspectives that were shaped by their unique experiences.
• In what ways did post-World War II art movements challenge traditional artistic conventions?
  • Art movements that emerged post-World War II, such as Abstract Expressionism, actively sought to break away from traditional artistic conventions. Artists experimented with abstraction, spontaneity, and unconventional materials, promoting the idea that art could be an expression of the subconscious mind rather than merely a representation of reality. This environment encouraged Outsider artists to similarly reject established norms, allowing them to express their individuality and creativity without constraints.
• Evaluate the impact of societal changes in the post-World War II era on the perception and acceptance of Outsider Art within the broader art community.
  • The societal changes following World War II significantly impacted how Outsider Art was perceived and accepted within the broader art community. As mental health awareness grew and discussions around marginalization became more prominent, there was a shift towards valuing diverse voices and experiences in art. This led to increased recognition of Outsider artists as legitimate contributors to contemporary art, allowing their unique perspectives to gain visibility and appreciation among critics, collectors, and institutions.

Related terms

Modernism: An artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and a focus on abstraction and innovation.

Cultural Revolution: A sociopolitical movement initiated in China in the mid-20th century aimed at preserving communist ideology by purging remnants of capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society.

Abstract Expressionism: An art movement that emerged in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s, emphasizing spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation, often challenging representational art.