Fourteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

My main thesis is based on the observation that there is a vivid meditative tendency in contemporary abstract painting. I will propose the characteristic of this international phenomenon and specify some directions in which it is developing nowadays. The originality of my approach is based on the juxtaposition of the contemporary painting from different cultures including American, Asian and European examples. I will define what the meditative tendency means and then I will apply it to the artworks by indicating the specific use of the color, composition or numinous effect. I will examine the influence of Color Field Painting but also I will discuss geometrical realizations and more individual searching. The theoretical background to my presentation is classical publications (such as The Spiritual in Art. Abstract Painting 1890 – 1985) as well as the newest critical statements. Generally speaking, I consider the meditative tendency in contemporary abstract painting as a continuity of the tendency that appeared in the second half of the XX century. I maintain that it is a reaction to the materialistic impact of contemporary culture. This kind of painting can serve as a space of silence and contemplation for modern society.