CUBISM meaning and definition

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Unpacking the Mystique of Cubism: A Journey into the Realm of Fragmented Forms

In the early 20th century, a revolutionary art movement emerged that would shake the very foundations of modern art. Cubism, led by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, transformed the way artists perceived and represented reality. But what does cubism mean, and how did this seismic shift in artistic thinking come about?

The Birth of Cubism

In 1907, Pablo Picasso created a series of works that would lay the groundwork for cubism. His paintings, such as "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," departed from traditional techniques by fragmenting forms into geometric shapes and multiple viewpoints. This bold experimentation marked the beginning of a new era in art history.

Georges Braque, another prominent figure in the movement, was heavily influenced by African masks and primitive art. His works, such as "Violin" (1913), showcased his unique blend of cubist principles and primitivist themes. The fusion of these styles would become a hallmark of cubism.

The Core Principles

So, what does cubism mean? At its core, cubism is an art movement that rejects traditional techniques of perspective, proportion, and representation. Artists using this style broke objects into their constituent parts, reassembling them in abstracted forms to create a new visual language.

Key principles of cubism include:

Fragmentation: Breaking down objects into geometric shapes, such as spheres, cylinders, and cubes.
Multiple Viewpoints: Depicting subjects from multiple angles simultaneously, rather than adhering to a single perspective.
Overlapping Planes: Allowing planes or surfaces to overlap, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality.

The Impact on Art

Cubism's innovative approach had far-reaching consequences for the art world:

Abstract Expressionism: Cubism paved the way for abstract expressionist movements, which emphasized non-representational forms.
Surrealism: The fragmented, multiple-perspective approach influenced surrealist artists, such as Salvador Dalí and René Magritte.
Modern Architecture: Cubism's emphasis on geometric shapes and overlapping planes inspired modern architectural designs.

Legacy and Influence

Cubism's influence extends beyond the art world:

Film and Literature: The fragmented narrative structure in films like "Un Chien Andalou" (1929) and literature like James Joyce's "Ulysses" owe a debt to cubist principles.
Music and Dance: Composers like Igor Stravinsky and Erik Satie, as well as choreographers like Martha Graham, drew inspiration from cubism's rhythms and geometric forms.

Conclusion

Cubism was more than just an artistic movement – it was a cultural phenomenon that challenged traditional notions of representation and perception. By fragmenting forms and multiple viewpoints, artists like Picasso and Braque opened doors to new creative possibilities. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, the principles of cubism remind us that there is beauty in fragmentation and that art can be a powerful tool for reimagining reality.

In the end, what does cubism mean? It means embracing the fragmented, multiple-perspective nature of our world – and creating something new, innovative, and groundbreaking from its very essence.