Art Informel, also known as Art Informal, is an art movement that emerged in Europe in the 1940s and 1950s.
It’s a form of abstract expressionism that focuses on the use of spontaneous and instinctive techniques to create art.
The term “Art Informel” means “unformed” or “formless” art in French, reflecting the movement’s emphasis on the artist’s raw emotions and instincts over more structured and formal techniques.
Origins of Art Informel
Art Informel emerged in the post-World War II era as a response to the destruction, chaos, and trauma of the war years.
Many artists were disillusioned with traditional forms of art and sought to create a new, more expressive, and spontaneous form of art that reflected their personal experiences and emotions.
One of the key figures in the Art Informel movement was the French artist Jean Dubuffet.
Dubuffet rejected traditional forms of art and sought to create a new form of art that was rooted in the everyday and the raw and unrefined.
He called this approach “Art Brut” or “Raw Art” and believed that it was a more honest and authentic form of expression than traditional art.
Dubuffet’s ideas were influential in the development of the Art Informel movement, which was characterized by a rejection of traditional artistic techniques and a focus on the raw and unrefined.
The movement was also influenced by the Surrealist movement, which emphasized the importance of the unconscious mind and the irrational in art.
Characteristics of Art Informel
Art Informel is characterized by a number of distinctive features.
One of the key characteristics of the movement is its emphasis on spontaneity and improvisation.
Artists working in the Art Informel style often create their works quickly and instinctively, without planning or preconceived ideas.
Another characteristic of Art Informel is its use of unconventional materials and techniques.
Artists working in this style often use non-traditional materials such as sand, gravel, and other found objects to create their works.
They also often use unconventional techniques such as dripping, pouring, and splattering paint onto the canvas.
In addition to its emphasis on spontaneity and unconventional techniques, Art Informel is also characterized by its focus on the materiality of the artwork.
Artists working in this style often create works that are heavily textured and tactile, with a strong emphasis on the physical qualities of the materials used.
Artists of Art Informel
A number of prominent artists worked in the Art Informel style, including Jean Dubuffet, Alberto Burri, Antoni Tàpies, and Wols.
Each of these artists had their own unique approach to the movement, but all shared a commitment to creating works that were spontaneous, raw, and emotionally charged.
Jean Dubuffet was one of the key figures in the Art Informel movement.
His works often featured heavily textured surfaces and bold, gestural marks.
He was particularly interested in the idea of “outsider” art and collected works by untrained artists and those in mental institutions.
Alberto Burri was another prominent artist associated with the Art Informel movement. Burri was a trained physician who became an artist after being captured by Allied forces during World War II.
His works often incorporated unconventional materials such as burlap, tar, and plastic.
Antoni Tàpies was a Spanish artist who worked in the Art Informel style.
His works often incorporated heavily textured surfaces and abstract forms.
Tàpies was particularly interested in the relationship between art and spirituality and often incorporated symbols and religious imagery into his works.
Wols was a German artist who worked in the Art Informel style.
His works often featured gestural, calligraphic marks and heavily textured surfaces.
Wols was particularly interested in the relationship between art and the unconscious mind and often incorporated automatic drawing techniques into his works.
Legacy Of Art Informel
Art Informel had a significant impact on the development of abstract expressionism and other forms of modern art.
The movement helped to break down traditional barriers between high and low art and encouraged artists to explore new forms of expression.
The emphasis on spontaneity and improvisation in Art Informel also paved the way for other movements such as action painting and performance art.
Many of the techniques and ideas developed by Art Informel artists continue to influence contemporary art today.
Art Informel – Wrap Up
Art Informel is a fascinating and important art movement that emerged in the post-World War II era.
It is characterized by its emphasis on spontaneity, unconventional techniques, and the raw and unrefined.
The movement had a significant impact on the development of abstract expressionism and other forms of modern art and continues to influence contemporary artists today.
