abstract expressionism

noun

often capitalized A&E
: an artistic movement of the mid-20th century comprising diverse styles and techniques and emphasizing especially an artist's liberty to convey attitudes and emotions through nontraditional and usually nonrepresentational means
abstract expressionist noun or adjective often capitalized A&E

Examples of abstract expressionism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The minimalism art style began in the 1960s as a reaction to the bold abstract expressionism that was popular at the time, according to The Museum of Modern Art (MoMa). Jessica Bennett, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2024 At that time many prominent American artists had embraced abstract expressionism, but Stella began exploring minimalism. CBS News, 4 May 2024 When abstract expressionism was the talk of the town early in his career, Ruscha made the conscious decision to throw conceptual art, pop and dada in a blender. Michael Slenske, The Hollywood Reporter, 10 Apr. 2024 Their work, characterized by a cool detachment and a bold, often satirical engagement with popular culture, marked a definitive departure from the abstract expressionism that had dominated the previous generation. Nel-Olivia Waga, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for abstract expressionism 

Word History

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of abstract expressionism was in 1922

Dictionary Entries Near abstract expressionism

Cite this Entry

“Abstract expressionism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/abstract%20expressionism. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on abstract expressionism

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!