Art history is often explained through long traditions that develop over many centuries. These traditions are shaped by geography, religion, and shared culture.
In many countries, art grows from one strong national tradition. American art is different. It often defines itself by breaking away—from European influence, from established rules, and from past ideas. Because of this, American art reflects immigration, protest, innovation, and questions of identity.
Here are some of the key periods that shaped the development of art in the United States.
1920s–1930s: The Harlem Renaissance
A cultural explosion of African American art, music, and literature centered in Harlem, NYC.
- Artists: Aaron Douglas, Augusta Savage, Jacob Lawrence.
- Art expressed Black identity, pride, and resistance during the Great Migration and Jim Crow era.
1930s–1940s: American Regionalism
Focused on rural American life and landscapes during the Great Depression.
- Artists: Grant Wood (“American Gothic”), Thomas Hart Benton.
- Celebrated simplicity, hard work, and the heartland.
1940s–1950s: Abstract Expressionism
The first American art movement to gain international acclaim.
- Artists: Jackson Pollock (drip painting), Mark Rothko (color fields).
- Often associated with New York; it marked the U.S. as a global art hub after WWII.
1960s–1970s: Minimalism
Simple forms, repetition, and industrial materials.
- Artists: Donald Judd, Dan Flavin (neon lights), Agnes Martin.
- Anti-emotional and anti-expressive — reacting against Abstract Expressionism.
1970s–1980s: Feminist Art
A radical movement challenging male dominance in the art world and broader society.
- Artists: Judy Chicago (The Dinner Party, a monumental installation celebrating women in history), Barbara Kruger (bold text-and-image works challenging power and consumerism).
- Brought women’s experiences, bodies, and history into gallery spaces — and demanded that art institutions take them seriously.
1980s–1990s: Street Art & Graffiti
Emerged from NYC subways and hip-hop culture.
- Artists: Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring.
- Used public space to speak on race, identity, consumerism, and AIDS awareness.
1990s-Now: Contemporary & Conceptual Art
Focus on ideas over traditional technique.
- Artists: Artists: Jenny Holzer (text-based art), Kara Walker (cut-paper silhouettes on race), Yayoi Kusama (Infinity Rooms — wildly popular in U.S. museums).
- Often explores global issues: immigration, climate, technology, and identity.
Find an event in your area!
The type and variety of art available to you will largely depend on whether you’re in a more rural area (small town) or urban area (city). While it’s nice to be aware of the iconic artists and their works, it can be very special to take back a piece of art from a local as it tells you a lot about a place during the time it was created.
Here are some websites you can use to find art events and galleries in your area:
- Eventbrite – Covers everything from concerts and theater to art exhibits and local festivals.
- Time Out – City-specific guides for major U.S. cities, including arts and culture picks.
- Artforum’s Art Guide – International but has detailed listings of U.S. gallery and museum shows.
- Artsy – Find gallery openings, art fairs, and exhibitions.
- MuseumsUSA – Directory of museums by state/city.
- Official city tourism sites (e.g., NYCgo.com, Chicago gov events, LA Tourism) often have arts calendars.
- Yelp – Search “arts” or “performing arts” for reviews and upcoming events near you.
Websites to explore and buy affordable art!
- Artfinder – Online marketplace for original artwork directly from independent artists
- Saatchi Art – Global online gallery featuring emerging and established contemporary artists
- Tappan Collective – Curated platform showcasing affordable contemporary art from emerging artists
- Affordable Art Fair – International art fair series making contemporary art accessible to new collectors
- University arts centers – Many campuses post public event calendars, which often have affordable or free shows
