Cubist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cubist

[หˆkjuหbษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

art style

Cubist refers to an art movement characterized by the use of geometric shapes, interlocking planes, and the fragmentation of objects. This style emerged in the early 20th century, with notable artists like Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque playing pivotal roles in its development. Cubism often aims to represent multiple perspectives within a single composition.

Synonyms

abstract, fragmented, geometric.

Examples of usage

  • The painting was done in a cubist style, showcasing various angles.
  • Cubist artists often deconstructed real-world objects.
  • Her artwork reflects cubist influences from the early 20th century.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Cubism began in the early 20th century, around 1907, primarily through the work of Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.
  • The term 'Cubism' was first used by art critic Louis Vauxcelles after seeing a painting by Braque that broke objects into geometric forms.
  • The movement dramatically changed how art was viewed, moving away from traditional perspectives to explore multiple viewpoints.

Influence on Art

  • Cubism paved the way for modern art, influencing many subsequent movements like futurism and abstract expressionism.
  • It challenged artists to experiment with form and perspective, leading to diverse interpretations across various cultures.
  • Famous works include Picassoโ€™s 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon' which is often seen as a cornerstone of the movement.

Architecture

  • The principles of Cubism influenced architectural design, leading to structures that emphasized geometric forms and abstract line work.
  • Buildings designed in a cubist style often feature fragmented shapes and bold colors, reflecting the artistic movement.

Literature

  • Similar to its visual counterpart, Cubist literature deconstructs narrative structure, often presenting multiple viewpoints within a single piece.
  • Writers like Gertrude Stein used a cubist approach by playing with language and breaking conventional forms to express complex ideas.

Cultural Impact

  • Cubism had a significant impact on fashion and design, with the geometric cuts and bold patterns seen in textiles and clothing designs.
  • The movement encouraged the idea of seeing beauty in abstraction, influencing a wide range of cultural practices beyond traditional art.

Origin of 'cubist'

The term 'cubism' was first coined by art critic Louis Vauxcelles in 1908 after he observed the work of the painter Georges Braque. The movement began as a reaction against the traditional perspective and representation of objects in art. It was marked by a break from classical forms and realistic depiction, embracing abstraction and the simplification of forms into basic geometric shapes. Pablo Picasso's 'Les Demoiselles d'Avignon' is often seen as a seminal piece that laid the groundwork for cubism. In the following years, artists like Juan Gris and Fernand Lรฉger contributed to its evolution, making cubism one of the most influential movements in modern art. While it has roots in Western art, the principles of cubism have resonated globally, influencing various disciplines beyond painting, including architecture and sculpture.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,700 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.