GEOMETRIC ABSTRACTION Meaning and
Definition
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Geometric abstraction is a style or movement in art characterized by the use of simple geometric shapes and forms, often in a nonrepresentational or nonobjective manner. It emerged in the early 20th century, particularly in the 1910s and 1920s, as a response to the increasingly industrialized and technological nature of society. Artists sought to break away from the representational and figurative traditions of art, using geometric elements such as lines, circles, squares, and triangles to create compositions.
In geometric abstraction, the emphasis is on the purity of form, color, and spatial relationships rather than on the representation of recognizable objects or scenes. Artists often employ basic geometric elements in a systematic and precise manner, creating balanced and harmonious compositions. The use of bold and vibrant colors is also common in this style, adding to the visual impact and dynamism of the artworks.
Geometric abstraction can be seen as a rejection of the notion of art as imitation or mimesis, aiming instead to explore the inherent aesthetics of shapes and colors. It is often associated with various art movements, including Constructivism, De Stijl, and Suprematism. Artists such as Piet Mondrian, Kazimir Malevich, and Wassily Kandinsky are renowned for their contributions to geometric abstraction.
Today, geometric abstraction continues to be an influential and relevant style in contemporary art, with artists exploring its potential in various mediums such as painting, sculpture, and digital art.
Etymology of GEOMETRIC ABSTRACTION
The etymology of the word "geometric abstraction" can be broken down as follows:
1. Geometric: The term "geometric" comes from the Greek word "geōmetria" (γεωμετρία), which translates to "measurement of the Earth" or "geometry". It is derived from the Greek words "geō" (γῆ) meaning "earth" and "metron" (μέτρον) meaning "measure".
2. Abstraction: The word "abstraction" is derived from the Latin word "abstractus", which means "drawn away". It comes from the prefix "ab-" (meaning "away from") and the verb "trahere" (meaning "draw, pull").
