Modern Art History

Social unrest, war, a burning desire to create something new -- all these elements have brought about what we call Modern Art. The 19th, 20th and even 21st centuries have witnessed phenomenal changes in not only art itself, but how we perceive art and artists.

Learn why critics originally called the French Impressionists "lunatics.” Meet Picasso, dream with Chagall, let Dalí’s visions bend your mind, follow the triumphant struggles of African-American painters like Horace Pippin, then tour Edward Hopper’s quietly charged scenes. Glimpse the intensities of Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo and Rufino Tamayo, or contemplate Pop Art icon Andy Warhol and Expressionist Francis Bacon.

Discover an amazingly diverse roster of artists, and why their works and lives continue to fascinate us.

Modern Art History

19th Century

20th Century

21st Century

Latest articles in Modern Art History

Contemporary Artist Michelle Lohr

At what age does a successful lawyer/homebuilder know she can become a full time artist? At age 3. At that tender age, Michelle Lohr knew her potential.

Mar 1, 2012 – Treathyl Fox

American Artist John Singer Sargent

The American expatriate artist John Singer Sargent (1856-1925) was especially famed for his portrait work.

Jan 29, 2012 – Meg Nola

American Impressionist Artist Colin Campbell Cooper

Artist Colin Campbell Cooper combined a fine sense of architecture and place with beautiful impressionistic technique.

Dec 14, 2011 – Meg Nola

Oskar Kokoschka - Painter, Sketcher, Dramatist, or Writer?

Oskar Kokoschka (1886-1980) was one of the most eclectic exponents of German Expressionism. In his long life he experimented with many art forms.

Nov 15, 2011 – Valerie Wilson

An Introduction to Manchester Artist L.S. Lowry

An introduction to Manchester artist L.S. Lowry, considering his mother, the theatre, his training under Valette and many of his paintings