Styles in painting are an integral part of humanity’s cultural heritage. They reflect the worldview of a specific time at the most subtle level.
The literal meaning of the term “painting” as a form of visual art serves as proof. The word comes from “live” and “to write.” “Live” means “life,” and “to write” means “to apply paint.” Thus, the essence of painting is to convey living images and emotions using paint on canvas or another surface. Painting allows artists to bring their ideas and perceptions of the world to life, creating works that can evoke a variety of feelings and thoughts in viewers.
The different ways artists have viewed the world throughout human history have given rise to numerous painting styles. Each reflects its time and the unique perspective of the artist. Therefore, it is worth delving deeper into the artistic heritage that has directly influenced our perception of the world.
How painting has changed over the centuries: from drawings on rocks to images on gadget screens
Painting has undergone an impressive evolution. During the Paleolithic era, when early
humans, barely aware of themselves as individuals, felt the need to capture the surrounding world, prehistoric artists created cave paintings depicting scenes of hunting, animals, natural phenomena, rituals, and ceremonies. They used natural materials to create paints: earth pigments, charcoal, and soot. They made brushes from animal hair and sometimes painted with their fingers.
Paleolithic paintings can be seen in various locations around the world. Examples of such ancient works include:
These caves represent unique and priceless monuments of ancient painting, showcasing how Paleolithic people expressed their perception of the surrounding world through art.
As time passed, painting evolved, and after the ancient period came the era of Antiquity. Artists of that time (Polygnotus, Apelles, Zeuxis, Phidias) aimed for accurate representation of the surrounding reality, leading to the development of perspective and chiaroscuro effects. They studied how to depict three-dimensional space on a flat surface, particularly in fresco painting, and applied this knowledge to decorate religious and public buildings.
One of the representatives of this period is the Pompeian frescoes, dated to the 1st century BCE and the 1st century CE. They were found in the ruins of Pompeii. These frescoes demonstrate a high level of skill in perspective and chiaroscuro, as well as a variety of themes—from mythological scenes to depictions of everyday life.
The Middle Ages brought religious themes to painting. Artists focused on iconography and other religious subjects, aiming to convey spirituality rather than accurate depictions of reality. Paintings of that time were characterized by expressive outlines and bright colors, although compositions often appeared flat and stylized.
From around the 5th century CE, a prolonged period of the Middle Ages began. It introduced religious themes into painting. Artists concentrated on iconography and other religious subjects, striving to convey spirituality rather than precise representations of reality. Paintings from this period were noted for their expressive outlines and vibrant colors, though compositions often looked flat and stylized.
Representatives of this time included the Russian icon painter Andrei Rublev (1360s – 1430), who created the “Trinity”; the Italian artist Duccio di Buoninsegna (c. 1255 – c. 1319), who founded the Sienese school of painting and is known for “Maestà”; and his compatriot Giotto di Bondone (1267 – 1337), who aimed for a more realistic depiction of figures and space. He is known for his frescoes in the Arena Chapel in Padua.
With the Renaissance, painting became secular and began gaining popularity with the spread of oil paints, the division of art into genres, and the development of painting styles.
New societal moods and worldviews dictated new approaches to art. Genres such as portraiture and landscape became independent styles. Artists began to express emotions and the inner world of individuals through their work. In the 17th and 18th centuries, as the Catholic Church lost influence, painting began to reflect more secular themes such as everyday life and nature. During the Renaissance, styles such as Baroque, Rococo, Classicism, and Mannerism developed. Later, Romanticism emerged, which was eventually succeeded by Impressionism.
In the early 20th century, painting underwent radical changes with the advent of abstract art. Artists sought to convey their emotions and inner world through the harmony of lines and colors, abandoning objectivity. Forms and colors became key elements, and artists enjoyed complete freedom for self-expression. This led to the emergence of avant-garde, underground, and abstract art.
Since the late 20th century and into the present, painting has continued to evolve. Contemporary artists often challenge traditional artistic canons and expand the boundaries of subject matter and technique. Modern art places significant emphasis on conceptualism and utilizes new technologies and materials. Artists reflect on social, political, and cultural issues of our time, commenting on topics such as globalization, identity, and the environment.
Painting has moved from canvases to digital spaces. Canvases have been replaced by screens of smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Artists use advancements in computer technology to create images and visual effects that were previously impossible with traditional methods. Digital painting is recognized as a legitimate form of art, and digital art exhibitions and galleries are appearing worldwide.
Artificial intelligence is also creating artworks. The use of AI allows artists to explore new facets of creativity and generates new forms of artistic expression. AI can generate complex and intricate patterns that would be difficult or nearly impossible to achieve manually.
While painting with AI opens new possibilities for creativity and self-expression, it also raises questions about authorship and the role of technology in the creative process.
Despite new achievements and technologies, many artists remain loyal to classical art, using oil and watercolor paints to create their masterpieces.
The most popular painting styles: history and features
Impressionism
Impressionism is an artistic style that emerged in France in the late 19th century and became one of the most influential movements in the history of painting. Impressionist artists aimed to convey momentary impressions and sensations of the surrounding world, paying special attention to light and color. They used short brush strokes and often worked outdoors to capture the changing natural light and the atmosphere of a specific moment. Impressionism is characterized by the following features: One of the most famous Impressionist artists is Claude Monet. His painting “Impression, Sunrise” (1872) gave the movement its name: “impression” means “impression” in Russian. Monet was a master of capturing light and water, and his series “Water Lilies” became a symbol of Impressionism. Another representative of Impressionism is Edgar Degas. He is known for his works dedicated to ballet. His paintings, such as “The Ballet Class” (1874), convey the movement and grace of dancers and show an interest in composition and light and shadow. Pierre-Auguste Renoir is another prominent Impressionist. His works, such as “Luncheon of the Boating Party” (1881), radiate warmth and joy. He primarily depicted scenes of social life and portraits. Camille Pissarro was an artist who worked extensively en plein air. His landscapes, such as “Boulevard Montmartre at Night” (1897), demonstrate attention to detail and a desire to capture the atmosphere of the city. Impressionism had a profound impact on subsequent generations of artists and led to the emergence of new movements such as Post-Impressionism, Cubism, and Fauvism. This style opened new paths for artistic expression, allowing artists to experiment with color, light, and technique. Impressionism also played a significant role in changing societal perceptions of art. Impressionist artists rejected strict academic rules and demonstrated that art could be spontaneous and subjective. Their works became popular among the general public and remain popular to this day.Expressionism
Expressionism is an artistic style that emerged in the United States in the 1940s and 1950s. It is characterized by an emphasis on spontaneous, gestural work, as well as the use of color and texture to convey emotions and mood. Expressionist art often consists of large non-representational canvases and is characterized by a departure from traditional forms and techniques. The main characteristics of Expressionism include: Expressionism includes two main directions – “Action Painting” and “Color Field Painting.” “Action Painting” emphasizes the physical act of painting, while “Color Field Painting” focuses on large, simplified forms and flat planes of color. Jackson Pollock is one of the most famous representatives of Expressionism in the “Action Painting” direction. His “drip” technique, where paint is splattered or dripped onto the canvas, allowed for the creation of unique and chaotic compositions. Pollock’s paintings, such as “Number 1” (1948), became symbols of Expressionism. Mark Rothko is an artist whose works belong to the “Color Field Painting” style. He created large canvases with simple yet powerful color fields, conveying deep emotional states through them. The painting “Untitled (Red on Yellow)” (1956) is a vivid example of his style. Willem de Kooning is another key figure in Expressionism, known for his energetic and dynamic paintings, such as “Woman I” (1950–1952). His works often combined abstraction and figuration. Expressionism had a significant impact on subsequent artistic movements, such as Minimalism and Neo-Expressionism. This painting style changed the perception of art by opening new paths for experimentation and self-expression. Artists gained the freedom to work without the constraints of traditional techniques and subjects, making Expressionism a crucial stage in the development of modern art.Modernism
Modernism is an artistic style that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in response to the social, political, and cultural changes brought about by industrialization and urbanization. Modernist artists sought to break away from traditional forms and styles, using new technologies, materials, and methods. The main characteristics of the Modernist style in painting are: Pablo Picasso is one of the most influential Modernist artists, creating numerous works, including “Guernica” (1937), which became symbols of the movement. He is known for his experiments with form and perspective, which led to the creation of Cubism. Wassily Kandinsky was a pioneer of abstract art. His famous painting, “Composition VII” (1913), is a notable example. Kandinsky believed that art should express inner emotions and spiritual states. Henri Matisse was an artist whose works, such as “Dance” (1910), are characterized by bright colors and simplified forms. He was one of the founders of Fauvism, a movement that emphasized expressive use of color. Modernist painting had a profound influence on subsequent artistic movements, such as Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art. Modernism changed the perception of art by emphasizing experimentation and individual expression. Artists opened new horizons in art, showing that it could be not only a reflection of reality but also an expression of the inner world and emotions.Neoclassicism
Neoclassicism is an artistic style that emerged in the mid-18th century and reached its peak in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was a reaction to the excessive decoration and emotionalism of Rococo and drew inspiration from the classical art of Ancient Greece and Rome. The main characteristics of Neoclassicism are: Notable artists working in the Neoclassical style include Jacques-Louis David, Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, and others. Jacques-Louis David created the painting “The Oath of the Horatii” (1784), which became a symbol of the movement, reflecting ideals of patriotism and self-sacrifice. Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres is another prominent representative of Neoclassicism, known for his portraits and historical paintings, such as “The Large Odalisque” (1814). His works are distinguished by their clarity of lines and idealized forms. Antonio Canova was an Italian sculptor whose works, such as “Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss” (1787–1793), embody the ideals of Neoclassicism in three-dimensional form. His sculptures are known for their grace and harmony. Neoclassicism had a significant impact on the development of art and architecture in Europe and America. It became a symbol of rationalism and order, which was particularly in demand during times of political and social change. Neoclassical artists laid the foundations for future generations, demonstrating that art can be not only decorative but also morally significant.Pop Art
Pop Art is an artistic style that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s in Britain and the United States. It is characterized by the use of images and objects from mass culture, such as comics, advertising, and consumer goods. Pop Art artists aimed to challenge traditional notions of art and elevate everyday objects and images to the level of art. The main characteristics of Pop Art are: Andy Warhol is one of the most famous representatives of Pop Art, renowned for his images of popular products such as Campbell’s Soup cans and portraits of celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe. Warhol also explored the phenomenon of mass production and consumption in his works. Roy Lichtenstein was an artist known for creating paintings in the comic book style. His works, such as “Whaam!” (1963), use Ben-Day dots and bold outlines to create a recognizable and vibrant visual language. Claes Oldenburg was an artist and sculptor whose works include large-scale representations of everyday objects like hamburgers and ice cream. His pieces are often made from soft materials, adding a humorous and surreal touch. Pop Art has had a significant impact on the art world, influencing subsequent movements such as Neo-Pop and Postmodernism. It changed the perceptions of what could be considered art and opened new avenues for artistic expression. Pop Art continues to be an important and influential style, inspiring contemporary artists and designers.Realism
Realism is an artistic style that emerged in the mid-19th century in response to Romanticism. Realists aimed to depict reality as it is, without idealization or embellishment. They focused on representing everyday life and the social issues of their time. The main characteristics of Realism in painting are: Gustave Courbet is one of the most famous representatives of Realism. His painting “The Burial at Ornans” (1849–1850) depicts an ordinary funeral procession in a village, emphasizing the simplicity and everyday nature of the event. Honoré Daumier was a French artist and caricaturist known for his satirical depictions of political life. His works, such as “Third-Class Carriage” (1862–1864), reflect the harsh life of ordinary people. Ilya Repin was a Russian artist whose works, such as “Barge Haulers on the Volga” (1870–1873), convey the harsh working conditions and life of peasants in Russia. Realism had a profound impact on art, paving the way for subsequent artistic movements such as Naturalism and Social Realism. It helped artists focus on real societal issues and use art as a means of social critique.Romanticism
Romanticism is a style in painting that emerged in the late 18th to early 19th century as a counter to Neoclassicism and the rationalism of the Enlightenment. Romantic artists sought to express emotions, individuality, and the inner world of the human experience through their work. The main characteristics of Romanticism in painting are: Francisco Goya was a Spanish artist whose works, such as “Saturn Devouring His Son” (1819–1823), reflect the darker and more dramatic aspects of human nature. J.M.W. Turner was an English artist known for his landscapes and marine scenes, such as “The Last Voyage of the ‘Good Ship ‘Hope'” (1839). His works are full of light and color, capturing the dynamism and power of nature. Caspar David Friedrich was a German artist whose paintings, such as “Wanderer above the Sea of Fog” (1818), convey a sense of solitude and contemplation. Romanticism had a significant impact on the development of art, literature, and music, emphasizing the importance of emotions and individual expression. It paved the way for the emergence of styles such as Symbolism and Modernism and continues to influence contemporary art.Post-Impressionism
Post-Impressionism is an artistic movement that followed Impressionism and developed in the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Post-Impressionists aimed not only to capture visual effects, as their predecessors did, but also to engage in significant stylization of their works. The main characteristics of Post-Impressionism are: Vincent van Gogh was one of the most famous Post-Impressionists, known for works such as “Starry Night” (1889), which feature intense, contrasting colors and expressive brushstrokes. His work had a significant impact on the development of Post-Impressionism. Paul Gauguin was an artist whose works, such as “The Yellow Christ” (1889), are distinguished by vibrant colors and symbolic elements. Gauguin sought to create his own artistic commune, leading to the emergence of Symbolism and Modernism. Henri Matisse, the founder of Fauvism, is known for works like “Dance” (1910), characterized by vivid colors and dynamism. His later works move towards abstract art. Paul Cézanne had a huge impact on 20th-century art, becoming the father of Cubism. His works, such as “Mont Sainte-Victoire” (1902–1906), demonstrate his effort to create a new major style. Post-Impressionism significantly influenced the development of modern art, paving the way for styles such as Expressionism, Cubism, and Fauvism. Post-Impressionist artists expanded the boundaries of painting, opening up new possibilities for creative expression and experimentation.Cubism
Cubism is a painting movement characterized by its transformation of all living and non-living objects on the canvas into geometric shapes. 20th-century artists aimed to move away from realistic representation, transforming familiar forms in various ways. The main characteristics of Cubism are: Pablo Picasso is one of the most significant figures in the history of Cubism. His painting “Guernica” (1937) is a symbol of the horrors of war, depicting the destruction of the Basque town of the same name. Georges Braque was a French artist who, along with Picasso, laid the foundations of Cubism. His works, such as “Woman with a Guitar” (1913), demonstrate characteristic Cubist elements such as fragmentation and abstraction of forms. Picasso believed that Cubism should be an art form that shows the world not as the artist sees it, but as he thinks about it. Cubism becomes a kind of philosophy of painting, attempting to show the true essence of things, rather than their realistic depiction. However, Cubism was not able to compete with abstract art and became a relatively short-lived phase in the art world of Europe. Its influence can be seen in subsequent movements such as Futurism and Constructivism.Suprematism
Suprematism is a movement based on non-objective painting and a complete departure from the depiction of the material world. Suprematist artists focused all their efforts on color, form, texture, and movement. Characteristics of Suprematism in painting: Kazimir Malevich is the founder of Suprematism, having developed the philosophy and written the manifesto for the new style of painting. His works “Black Square” (1915) and “White on White” (1918) are prominent examples of working with contrast, statics, and movement. Alexandra Exter was an artist who also worked in the spirit of Suprematism, creating works that combine geometric shapes and bright colors: “City at Night” (1919), “Satanic Ballet” (1922). Suprematism has had a profound impact on modern design and graphics. Malevich’s explorations in abstraction and non-objectivity continue to inspire artists and designers around the world.Surrealism
Surrealism is an art movement based on the psychological research of Sigmund Freud and the artists’ desire to depict the subconscious. Key features of Surrealism include: Salvador Dalí is one of the most famous Surrealists. His works, such as “The Persistence of Memory” (1931), are memorable for their strange and fantastical imagery. Dalí also worked in Hollywood, creating mystical scenes for films such as “Spellbound” (1945). His collaboration with director Alfred Hitchcock led to the creation of unforgettable visual images filled with Surrealist elements. Dalí aimed to bring his unique vision to cinema, using unusual and often shocking techniques to create an atmosphere of mystery and tension. René Magritte was an artist known for his realistic paintings that contain elements of the impossible. His work “The Treachery of Images” (1929) is a famous example of Surrealist distortion of reality. Frida Kahlo was a Mexican artist whose works are deeply personal and autobiographical. Her paintings, such as “The Two Fridas” (1939), reflect her own physical and emotional experiences. Surrealism has had a significant impact not only on painting but also on cinema, photography, and literature. It continues to inspire artists around the world, opening new ways of depicting the subconscious and the inner world of the human being.Similarities and differences between styles and influence on each other
The diversity of painting styles is striking in its richness and depth. Each style possesses unique characteristics, yet all are interconnected, influencing each other and evolving through the mutual exchange of ideas and techniques.
Impressionism emerged in France in the late 19th century, aiming to capture fleeting impressions of light and color. Artists of this movement used quick brushstrokes and bright palettes, focusing on light and atmosphere rather than detailed representations of objects. Expressionism, which appeared in the early 20th century, emphasized the emotional state of the artist. This style differed from Impressionism by distorting form and using intense colors to convey emotions and moods, creating more subjective and dramatic art.
Modernism, encompassing various styles such as Post-Impressionism, Cubism, and Surrealism, sought to move away from traditional forms and styles by using new technologies and materials. Modernism emphasized abstraction and experimentation, opening the door to further artistic innovations. In contrast, Neoclassicism aimed to revive the classical ideals of Ancient Greece and Rome, focusing on clarity of lines and harmony of forms. This style is marked by its strictness and symmetry, contrasting with more emotional and experimental directions such as Expressionism and Modernism.
Pop Art, which emerged in the mid-20th century, used images from mass culture and advertising to blur the boundaries between “high” and “low” art. The bright colors and simple forms of Pop Art made it accessible and understandable to a wide audience. Realism, which appeared in the mid-19th century as a reaction against Romanticism, aimed to depict everyday life without idealization, focusing on accuracy and detail. This style is opposed to Impressionism and Expressionism, as it was not subjective and concentrated on external observations rather than internal impressions and emotions.
Romanticism, emerging in the late 18th century as a reaction to Neoclassicism, emphasized individuality and emotions, often depicting dramatic and exotic subjects. This movement focused on personal feelings, which links it to Expressionism.
Post-Impressionism, which followed Impressionism, sought greater structural and emotional content, using more vivid colors and clear forms. It paved the way for styles such as Cubism and Expressionism.
Cubism, which arose in the early 20th century, transformed objects into geometric forms, aiming to show subjects from multiple viewpoints simultaneously. This had a significant impact on subsequent abstract movements such as Suprematism, which aimed for pure abstraction using simple geometric shapes and a limited color palette.
Surrealism, also emerging in the early 20th century, used psychoanalytic ideas to depict the subconscious, creating illogical and fantastical images.
Thus, each of these styles is unique in its own way, but they are all interconnected, influencing one another and evolving through the mutual exchange of ideas and techniques. Impressionism influenced Post-Impressionism, which set the stage for Cubism and Expressionism. Cubism and Futurism, in turn, influenced Suprematism, which sought pure abstraction. Modernism incorporated elements of various styles and impacted Pop Art and Abstract Art. Pop Art influenced Neo-Pop and Postmodernism, continuing this evolutionary chain.
These styles, interacting and evolving, created a rich and diverse palette of artistic directions in painting, each contributing uniquely to the history of art.
The connection between painting and other forms of art
Painting, literature, music, theater, and architecture – these forms of art are closely interconnected. Over the centuries, they have mutually enriched and inspired each other.
Painting and Literature
Artists often draw inspiration from literary works, creating illustrations for books and visualizing scenes and characters. A vivid example is Gustave Doré’s illustrations for Dante’s “Divine Comedy.” The Romantic era in painting was inspired by the literary works of Byron and Shakespeare, resulting in dramatic and emotionally charged canvases.
For instance, François Gérard created a series of paintings dedicated to Shakespeare’s tragedies, such as “Hamlet” and “Romeo and Juliet.” These works are marked by deep emotional intensity and drama, conveying the inner world of the characters. Eugène Delacroix, inspired by Byron’s poems like “Manfred” and “The Corsair,” created paintings reflecting the tragic fate of heroes, their inner struggles, and yearning for freedom.
Literary movements like Symbolism were reflected in painting through the works of artists who sought to convey profound philosophical and metaphysical ideas. For example, Gustav Klimt’s works embody Symbolist motifs, images, and themes infused with esoteric ideas and symbols.
Expressionism in literature and painting focused on expressing the inner world of individuals, often through the distortion of form and color. An example is Edvard Munch’s “The Scream,” where the artist conveys the internal anguish of a person through expressive use of color and form, creating an atmosphere of anxiety and unease.
Painting and Music
Many artists have sought to capture musical motifs and rhythms in their works. Wassily Kandinsky, for example, believed that colors and forms could evoke the same emotions as music, and he attempted to visualize musical compositions in his abstract paintings. His work “Composition VII” (1913) is considered one of the most vivid examples of attempting to express musical ideas through painting. Inspired by Arnold Schoenberg’s music, Kandinsky created canvases full of dynamism and expression.
Baroque and Romantic music often inspired artists to create majestic and emotional paintings. For instance, William Turner’s paintings, such as “The Last Voyage of the ‘Brave'” (1839), convey the drama and emotional richness characteristic of Ludwig van Beethoven’s music.
Modern artists like Gustav Klimt drew inspiration from the musical works of their time, striving to create harmonious and decorative works. Klimt’s painting “Beethoven Frieze” (1902) is a direct illustration of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, attempting to convey its grandeur and emotional depth through exquisite ornaments and symbolic figures.
These examples show how music from different eras and styles influenced artists, helping them create works that reflect rhythms, melodies, and emotional states conveyed through sound.
Painting and Theater
Artists often collaborated with theater directors, creating sets and costumes for performances. For example, Léon Bakst worked on the design of Sergei Diaghilev’s ballets, creating luxurious and vibrant stage designs.
Theatrical productions of the Renaissance and Baroque periods inspired artists to create complex and dramatic compositions that conveyed the tension and emotions of the scenes. Caravaggio’s paintings, such as “The Calling of Saint Matthew” (1599-1600) and “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist” (1608), are notable for their theatricality and dynamism.
“The Calling of Saint Matthew” impresses with its dramatic intensity, focusing on the moment when Christ calls Matthew to become his disciple. The contrast of light and shadow, the intense gestures, and the expressive faces of the characters lend the painting a sense of liveliness and emotional tension. Similarly, “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist” demonstrates the masterful use of light and shadow to highlight the tragic moment. The dynamic scenes, gestures, and expressions of the characters enhance the dramatic impact of the painting on the viewer.
Painting and Architecture
Architecture and painting are closely intertwined through the creation of frescoes and monumental murals. Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and Raphael in the Vatican Rooms created masterpieces that adorn architectural structures.
During the Modernist era, architects and artists like Antoni Gaudí and Gustav Klimt sought to create cohesive artistic works, integrating painting, sculpture, and architecture into a unified whole.
Antoni Gaudí is best known for his architectural masterpieces in Barcelona. One of his most famous works is the Sagrada Familia, where he combines architectural elements with artistic and sculptural details, creating a unique harmonious creation. Another outstanding example is Park Güell, where Gaudí integrated natural forms with architecture, sculpture, and mosaic, creating a unified and harmonious artistic space.
Gustav Klimt, in turn, created works that became symbols of the Art Nouveau style in painting. His painting “The Kiss” is a vivid example of how painting can be integrated into decorative art. Klimt used gold leaf and intricate patterns to create a sense of coherence and harmony. Another significant work by Klimt is “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer,” where he also employed decorative elements, making the painting part of a broader artistic context.
Thus, painting, literature, music, theater, and architecture mutually enrich and inspire each other, creating a multifaceted and rich cultural space. These art forms, interacting and intertwining, continue to evolve, offering new ways to express and perceive the world.
Question and answer
Determining the most popular style of painting is challenging, as preferences can vary greatly depending on time, place, and context. However, several painting styles are particularly popular and influential:
Each of these styles has its unique appeal and resonates with different audiences, making it difficult to pinpoint a single “most popular” style.
