Difference between Contemporary Art and Modern Art

Art is one of the things that is always inherent in human life, directly or indirectly all aspects of human life will always be related to art. In its development, art has many categories that always increase along with the progress of human civilization, now written will discuss modern art and contemporary art.

The difference between modern art and contemporary art cannot be seen directly. Judging the difference between the two requires research as well as criticism by artists. However, it doesn't hurt to learn in general the differences between contemporary art and modern art. 

What is Modern Art?

Despite the name modern, the definition does not refer to art that exists today. Modern art is 19th century art that started from the 1800s to 1970. Modern art emphasizes the subjective representation of the subject rather than realism. From modern art came art movements such as impressionism, post-impressionism, and cubism.  

Modern art aims to explore new forms in art, as well as reflect the social and cultural changes of its time. In the era of modern art, some famous artists include Picasso, Vincent Willem Van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, Salvador Dali. Modern artists from Indonesia include Raden Saleh, Affandi Koesoema, Kartono Yudhokusumo, and Achmad Sadali. 

Characteristic of Modern Art

There are several characteristics that influenced art in the 19th to mid-20th century. Modern art has concepts that come from the internal aspects of art and are influenced by the dynamics of nature. 

In that era, social, cultural, political, and scientific backgrounds contributed to the creation of art. For example, Raden Saleh's painting depicting the kidnapping of Prince Diponegoro. 

In modern art, artists have two approaches: rational and emotional. The rational approach prioritizes form, while the emotional emphasizes expression and meaning.  

What is Contemporary Art?

In general, art Contemporary art is defined as art that takes place today and reflects freedom. Contemporary art is influenced by the impact of modernization and developed in the west as art created since World War II. Apart from paintings, contemporary artworks include photography, installations, performances and videos.

In Indonesia, the artist who first introduced contemporary art was Gregorius Sidharta Soegijo from Yogyakarta. He is a sculpture artist who is famous for his works Tangisan Dewi Betari and Tonggak Samudera. 

Characteristics of Contemporary Art

Contemporary art also has characteristics to distinguish it from modern art. The following are the characteristics of contemporary art.

1. It is not bound by the rules and regulations of old art.
2. There are no boundaries between different art disciplines. 
3. Evolve with the times.
4. Have "moralistic" passions and desires.

Difference between Contemporary Art and Modern Art

Based on the explanation above, it is quite clear the difference between contemporary art and modern. Both can be distinguished based on the period in which they take place, as well as the characteristics seen in the artwork. Modern artworks are still influenced by social, cultural and environmental factors. While contemporary artworks are not limited to art disciplines, and have no fixed rules. 

However, if differentiated by the layman, the two are quite difficult to distinguish because of the renewal. Contemporary art and modern art can only be judged by artists or art critics. To be able to enjoy and observe modern and contemporary art, you can visit various art exhibitions and also art galleries to sharpen and enrich your knowledge about art.