The Shape of Freedom

This insightful exploration of post-1945 radical abstraction highlights the connections between Abstract Expressionism and Art Informel, as seen in The Shape of Freedom.

In The Shape of Freedom, readers are invited to explore the evolution of radical abstraction in the post-World War II era. The book focuses on the dynamic interplay between artists associated with Abstract Expressionism in the United States and Art Informel in Western Europe. This period marked a significant departure from the dominant artistic styles of the interwar years, as a new generation of artists sought to redefine their creative expressions. Rather than adhering to figurative representation or geometric abstraction, these painters embraced a more impulsive and instinctual approach to form, color, and material.

The artistic gestures of this time became powerful symbols of individual freedom, allowing artists to convey their thoughts and emotions through spontaneity. Large-scale color-field compositions emerged, providing a meditative space for contemplating fundamental questions of human existence. The book not only showcases the artistic achievements of this vibrant movement but also delves into the rich transatlantic exchanges that took place from the 1940s to the end of the Cold War.

Lavishly illustrated, The Shape of Freedom features works by over 50 notable artists, including Alberto Burri, Helen Frankenthaler, and Jackson Pollock, among others. Through this comprehensive examination, the book highlights the profound impact of these two sister movements on the trajectory of modern art, emphasizing the cultural significance of their collaborative spirit and innovative techniques.