Art Through the Ages: The Main Styles of Art

Whether you’re a professional artist or a total amateur, everybody knows at least a little bit about art. At the very least, most people learnt a little bit about art during their schooling career, and most likely attempted to create artworks of their own. Of course, some of us would’ve been more successful than others!

One interesting aspect of art is that, although it’s all open to interpretation, there are several official styles, in which most artworks will slot.

Here are the most famous and popular styles of art that have developed through time.

1. Impressionism

Characterised by short, visible brushstrokes, impressionist art places emphasis on capturing the momentary impression of a scene. Of course, this is all dependent on the artist’s perception which is what makes each piece so unique.

2. Abstract

Stepping well outside the box, abstract art depicts non-real subject matter. Indeed, rather than focusing on common figures or objects, it uses colour, shape and form to create a unique visual experience.

3. Realism

In direct contrast to abstract art, realism tends to attempt to depict reality as accurately as possible. It depicts the physical appearance of the subject matter as much as possible. Of course, artists all have vastly different styles, and the products will always be different. But no matter the style of the realist in question, the end product will display a reasonably accurate depiction of whatever the subject matter.

4. Surrealism

Surrealism is where things get a little whacky, stepping into the subconscious and exploring the world of the irrational using art. This style tends to feature dream-like and fantastical elements and explores worlds of the imagination.

5. Futurism

Futurism is a particularly interesting style of art, seeing as it takes into account different perceptions and opinions of different artists more than ever. It celebrates technology and innovation, specifically focusing on the machine age. Futuristic art tends to result in energetic and dynamic compositions.

6. Pop Art

Feeding into the advent of modernism, pop art emerged in the mid-20^th century. Using elements of popular culture in a variety of different ways, pop art includes aspects of things like advertising and comic books within the context of fine art. It’s often used to express political or social messages.

7. Cubism

As the name suggests, cubism is a style of art that breaks down whatever the subject matter is into basic geometric shapes. They’re then reassembled and made to reflect a new, fragmented, abstract form. Cubism allows for a lot of freedom in composition and is exciting to look at as the winners you’d back in horse race betting.

8. Expressionism

While each artist is different, and their individuality will surely be reflected in the work they create, expressionist art tends to be the product of the emotions of the artist. It tends to reflect their experiences, their feelings and how they feel about said experiences.

Expressionist art is renowned for its use of exaggerated forms and bright vivid colours. These two things are used as tools to create a really powerful reflection of the artist’s inner feelings.