Modern Paintings

     The universe of art has been engaging people for thousands and thousands of years. From early versions of prehistoric art to what we see today, the transformation throughout the decades has been astronomical. One of the greatest things about art and paintings is that they really are a human connection. Each stroke of the brush or line with the pencil brings forth beautiful pieces of work that not only the artist relates to, but those who admire the work as well. Art allows for the expression of emotion through various colors, contouring, etc. We dare to say this level of expression is stronger than words and serve as a silent, yet the visual representation of inner feelings. A great piece of art moves those who view it as it becomes a breath-taking experience.

   This human connection has transformed throughout the years bringing artists and aesthetes closer and closer together. A true aesthete appreciates the beauty of art and paintings as it constantly redefines itself. To use the term "modern art" is to use it quite subjectively. While the current era we live in could be considered "modern", art is transforming daily. There are many new mediums acquired and no shortage of imagination when it comes to presenting new pieces of work.

Modern Art: A Fluid Definition

   Even though it's commonly considered that current times can be considered modern, it is more customary to define modern paintings or art as being dated from 1870 to about 1970. Anything after 1970 has been classified as Contemporary and even further so has adopted the term "Postmodern". These eras of art were set in place to try and group together how each era brought forth new and exciting pieces of work. Each era that arose truly gave the term "modern art or paintings" a more fluid definition with room for flexible defining.

   While the mediums used to produce paintings are heavily chosen by the artist, modern paintings have a common ground of medium typically associated with them. Usually, oil paints are the most preferred. These paints use oil to bind pigments together and give a striking look when brushed across a canvas.

   It is a strong opinion that oil painting is the most difficult medium to use. Throughout the years, the most talented artists to emerge have used oil paints. The advantage of oil paint is the amount of depth that can be created with color schemes. The depth gives way to masterpieces with levels of gorgeous coloring.

   But how is this truly achieved? The type of oil in the paint helps aid in how well the paint blends and is able to be worked into such masterpieces. Linseed oil is the most common oil used. Its ability to dry fast gives such flexibility to its overall use in modern paintings. Depending on the type of oils used in the paint will determine the price. Oil paints are considered to be more expensive. However, if an artist wants to provide high-quality work, the price to be paid is well worth the turnout!

Famous Modern Paintings

   When looking at modern paintings from approximately 1870 to 1970, there have some memorable pieces of art produced. These paintings have melded colors and gorgeous scenes that awed the world and continue to do so even today. Below are some of the greatest paintings that are considered to be modern paintings.

• "Impression, Sunrise" by Claude Monet in 1873:   This water scene was painted with an oil medium and conveys soft blues, yellows, and whites. It is famously considered to be the king of Impression art from Claude Monet. Its high regard has been admired greatly by many.

• "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte" by Georges Seruat in 1884/1886:   This modern oil painting is more bold with its lines and has definitive characters. It portrays a relaxing day on an island by Victorian dressed women and men with umbrellas. The contrasted colors present an appealing look and the relaxing nature of the overall painting can truly be felt.

• "Nighthawks" by Edward Hopper in 1942:   This painting really a beauty to view. It has sharp colors that are painted soft and have a melding effect. It features three people at a bar, two of them seemingly together and one sitting solo. Paintings or art, in general, tell a story of some sort. That story can be clear or interpreted by aesthetes alike. Whatever story provides significant context to the admirer of the work. The ability to produce such moving work is a talent all its own.

• "American Gothic" by Grant Wood in 1930:   Easily one of the most recognizable pieces of art to date, this piece is a truly timeless classic. While it's wildly known, it doesn't make it any less impressionable. In an era when farmers were prevalent, this painting related to so many and can even do so to date. The couple portrayed in this work of art give off a hardworking vibe with their defined faces, etc. The oil painting has crisp color and the focal point may be the couple, but the background of their farm can be appreciated as well. There is a twist to this painting as well, as it has also been viewed as creepy. The overall look of the husband in particularly can be portrayed as menacing. That is what makes art so beautiful, there are no objective meanings to their backstories or images. The subjectivity of modern paintings makes each and every one truly unique and appreciable.

   As art takes on different perspectives throughout the years, it will be interesting to see what is produced. Will the term "post-modern art" become more applicable? What will the next era of art be considered? All that can be said for sure is that talent exists everywhere and the molding of art in the future will give way to beautiful pieces! Art will always live on throughout society and its constant change makes it's so intriguing!