All visual art dating from about 1980 falls under contemporary art, also known as contemporary art. Dynamic, eclectic and diverse are words that connect to this. Although matters are no longer denounced on the basis of a shared body of ideas - there is no longer a uniformly worn ideology or ism - contemporary artists certainly also make statements with their work. At the AbrahamArt gallery, for example, a new series of beautiful, sometimes confrontational portraits by Marco Grassi can be seen. Betsy Enzensberger wants to convey a clear message with her apparently superficial objects. And Bram Reijnders brings the world to you on a canvas to blur the dividing line between cultures, lives and art.
‘The collective role of visionary, idealist or activist has faded into the background’
In short, art is more popular than ever today. Major corporations invest in valuable corporate collections, the number of private collectors is increasing sharply and art fairs play a vital role on the world stage. The market is growing explosively. Galleries, fairs and studios are more often the setting for social/network events and this is one of the reasons why art is associated with a certain lifestyle. In short, contemporary art is booming!
What is Contemporary Painting? In any case, we can say that no unambiguous art movements can be found in contemporary art. At least not as in modern art (roughly from 1880 to 1970) and all periods before that. Of course, global trends, influences and developments can still be recognized, but the collective role of visionary, idealist or activist has faded into the background. This does not mean that art is less meaningful in a popular context. On the contrary, this makes most contemporary painters and sculptors more accessible to the general public. Enthusiasts want to feel connected or identified with the artist's individual, authentic creation.
Contemporary art from a new perspective
In fact, modern art ushers in the transition phase. At the end of the nineteenth century, more and more painters leave the status quo for what it is and start experimenting. They no longer work from a commission, but play from a desire for personal expression with light, form and texture. This development ensures that art increasingly arises from the concept or idea of the artist himself. His vision and creativity are central.
An example of this is Julio Ghiorzi, who is inspired by well-known paintings from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries and other iconic images. Time and again, the Brazilian explores new possibilities to provide original works of art with a completely different perspective. With a contemporary look and modern techniques, he knows how to retain the original atmosphere and yet clearly put his own stamp.
"His large, remarkable portraits touch, because they are always accompanied by a special touch and a pinch of surrealism"
The Italian artist Marco Grassi - who has lately made a big impression at the world's best art fairs and galleries - also has an unmistakable signature. His large, remarkable portraits are touching, because they are always accompanied by a special touch and a pinch of surrealism. In his latest work (perhaps due to the global corona crisis) he seems to let go of finesse, giving his paintings a raw edge from which pure emotion speaks.
Artistic technique
In addition to free expression, what generally applies to contemporary art, is the immense diversity in both objects and the use of materials. We see a lot of mixed media. Often to emphasize a logical or illogical coexistence. Experimenting and combining paint with other substances such as glue or solvent and printed media or utensils does not necessarily result in a collage, but rather in an artistic technique.
‘The immense diversity in both objects and use of materials’
For example, the Amsterdammer George Heidweiller allows the world to merge into one work through his unique approach. Not only by integrating diverse techniques and graphic elements, but also by visual fragments of Asian street culture, the South American use of color and the excessive violence and consumption behavior of Western society. His paintings continue to fascinate due to the witty, unambiguous visual language and contrast-rich layering.
Crispy White's ingenious collage technique also continues to intrigue. From a distance, his work is reminiscent of the pointillism of Georges Seurat and Paul Signac, among others. Only up close do you see with how much patience and dedication he has depth and "hidden" attributes to his work. There is a clear link between the subject and the sometimes ironic, sometimes obvious chosen images from which the work arises.
Status of popularity contemporary artists
Whereas in the past art critics could make or break an artist's status, today the commercial market mainly determines whether an artist is successful or not. The work of the contemporary artist is appreciated in a small circle or is appreciated by the general public. The consumer chooses and thus determines the popularity. It can therefore be a smart investment for the future to buy new contemporary art now.
A new, internationally rising star of the current art scene, for example, is the Los Angeles-based Betsy Enzensberger. She owes her popularity to her realistic, larger-than-life, frozen treats. Her synthetic resin works express the desire of the inner child. With the familiar sweets, she hopes to remind everyone of the simplicity, value and culture of delicious desserts that are associated with positivity and joy.
Visit AbrahamArt in Amsterdam or Eindhoven to see the work of both emerging talents and established names in contemporary art. The gallery is home to original work by many popular artists. Contemporary art to admire, buy or rent. Any trial placements can be arranged free of charge and without obligation. You can also visit our art gallery for other art, such as pop art, abstract art, street art and photographic art.
