Minimalism

Definition of Minimalism as it relates to Art, Contemporary Art, Fine Arts, Decorative Arts

Minimalism, as a subset of Decorative Arts and sibling to Fine Arts within the realm of Contemporary Art, is characterized by an extreme simplicity of form and content, where only what is essential features in the work. It is an art movement that emerged in the mid-20th century and is defined by its geometric shapes, monochromatic palette, and minimal ornamentation. The materials used in Minimalism are often industrial and mass-produced, such as steel, concrete, and glass, which further emphasizes the artwork's simplicity and functionality. This style of art emphasizes on the idea that "less is more" and it seeks to strip away all non-essential elements to focus solely on the fundamental aspects of the piece. Minimalism has a strong connection with the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, which values simplicity, tranquility, and directness of experience. It encourages viewers to contemplation and introspection by eliminating distractions and focusing on the essentials.

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