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Modernism 

In the late eighteen hundreds, art in Europe changed drastically. New styles and techniques were always making an appearance, but this time, it was a new era that came about. Modernism refers to an artistic movement in Western arts and literature that gathered pace from around 1850. It is characterized by a rejection of the styles of the past and a beginning of new styles and techniques. Different types of new paintings such as abstract paintings, which introduced the use of color and shapes, were popular. Many new opportunities for women opened up. This included new methods and tools and even places where women can share their art with others.

Robert Delaunay, Rythmes

         Abstract art became very popular. This form of art did not have a particular meaning. Instead of characters and scenery to represent a story, abstract art used shapes and colors. There was no particular story being painted. The viewer was free to interpret the painting and make his or her own observations. Sonia Delaunay was a painter who specialized in abstract art. Her paintings reflected on different moods depending on the colors she chose. It was up to the spectators to decide on what this mood was.

Sonia Delaunay, Prismes électriques

         

Hannah Hoch, Marlene

German expressionism was also a movement in Europe. This movement made its way during the beginning of the nineteenth century. Architecture was its main focus. Whether it was in paintings or other pieces of art, it was evident. Shortly after this movement, another “ism” came about. Dada-ism in the 1920’s was known for its sarcastic and satirical interpretations. Hanna Hoch was a German painter. She painted Marlene's (a famous singer of the time) legs posted up on a pedestal to represent the male gaze. Despite her talent and clothing, Hoch is saying that the male gaze is still evident throughout her performances.

         

Claude Cahun, Mirror

Surrealism is another movement that is defined as an avant-garde movement. It promoted the creative mind and juxtaposition of items and subjects in the painting. This was popular in the beginning of the twentieth century. Painters digged deep into their subconscious to bring out creativity that was new to everyone else around them. This movement showed that the mind has no limits. Painters would paint their dreams or beliefs or even their interpretations of afterlives. Claude Cahun is a French artist who took this movement to another level. She painted herself in masculine manners to stretch the mind and perspectives of viewers. This was her unique way to express her sexuality.

         Frida Khalo is a perfect example of a painter during this movement. Experiencing so much at such a young age and going through physical accidents led to her creative paintings. Being interested in men and women, Friday Khalo was sexually available or interested and had a relationship with Diego Rivera. She painted what she felt and what she dreamt. Her interpretations of life and death were very unique. Growing up in Mexico, it was hard for her family to accept her due to their culture. However, Khalo continued to be herself even if that meant dressing like a man.

Frida Khalo, The Wounded Table

      By the twentieth century there was a woman's revolution. Different types of art such as collages and colorful or geometric art were all becoming very popular. Women were having their art be seen in museums and exhibits and finally were being credited for it. Whether you were a feminist or not, females all over the world simply just wanted to be called an artist.