Adria Crossen Davis Collection Manager/Graduate Exhibition Co-Curator Statement

Expressionism emphasized energetic and dynamic mark making in contrast to the more reflective and spiritual Color Field abstraction. The Color Field movement stressed the overall consistency of form and process and less on gestural brushstrokes of its counterpart and can be seen in the prints of Latvian artists Ivars Hirss and Adja Yunkers. Abstract Expressionism favored highly abstract imagery even when depicting elements from reality. The individuality of the application of the media gives the viewer evidence of the artist’s hand. The sense of the almost calligraphic directness in brushstroke, unconscious artlessness, emotional frenzy and strong attraction to vibrant color characterize a large portion of this movement. The tradition of perspective was demolished and flatness was valued. Artists broke away from the conventional techniques of mark making. During this movement many artists began experimenting with size, creating monumental works. Automatism and spontaneity in movement is indicated, similar to a performance. The physical experience of making the art is individual, crucial and apparent.Expressionism favored highly abstract imagery even when depicting elements from reality. The individuality of the application of the media gives the viewer evidence of the artist’s hand. The sense of the almost calligraphic directness in brushstroke, unconscious artlessness, emotional frenzy and strong attraction to vibrant color characterize a large portion of this movement. The tradition of perspective was demolished and flatness was valued. Artists broke away from the conventional techniques of mark making. During this movement many artists began experimenting with size, creating monumental works. Automatism and spontaneity in movement is indicated, similar to a performance. The physical experience of making the art is individual, crucial and apparent. Adria Crossen Davis Janet Turner Print Museum Collection Manager/Graduate Exhibition CoCurator, Spring 2013