Abstract Expressionism, Color Field Painting, Pop Art, Happenings, Earthworks

Abstract Expressionism (Late 1940s-1950s)

• First American avant-garde movement 
• Action paintings: artist drips or splatters paint onto a surface

Color Field Painting (1960s)

• Lacks aggression of Abstract Expressionism 
• Relies on subtle tonal values; variations of a monochromatic hue 

Pop Art (1955-1960s)

• Materials of the everyday world, mass popular culture, celebrities, reaction against Abstract Expressionism 

Happenings (1960s) 

• act of performance initially planned, but involves spontaneity, improvisation, and audience participation

Site Art / Earthworks (1970s-1990s) 

• Interacts with the environment