Introduction to Avant-Garde

Originally the term avant-garde was used to describe the front lines of an army going into battle, which makes sense because in a modern sense avant-garde artists are battling convention. When I explore the meaning behind something being avant-garde, I come to the conclusion that this form of artistic exploration is to break down the barriers that were set previously by artists. Also it is extremely innovative, the avant-garde style goes outside of the box and sort of challenges the "norms" of art. This style also challenges the usual conventions of art and manifests some completely new styles, diving deeper into a much more personal and expressive side of art, which pushes the comfort zone previously set forth by classic artists. Avant-grade artists attempt to really try to move away from the established methods. Yet in their attempt to move away from established conventions they end up being reliant on what is established so they can grown and proceed forward from that point. An example of avant-garde work is Manet's painting, Luncheon on the Grass. This painting has proven to be challenging to viewers because originally people were used to looking at works of art with an obvious story or plot. For example through out the years many works of art drew from religious stories, political powers, or common stories of the time. Avant-garde works like the Luncheon have no obvious message or story, which was very challenging for viewers to get used to. This is also why critics had a hard time liking this new form of art because it really did challenge what was the "Norm". Also in this painting the artist made now attempt to hide or blend his brush strokes, he left the texture of the brush strokes within his work. Also he plays with perspective in a much less strict fashion than had been the norm for along time. One can see this in the flatness of the painting and lack of depth, also by the unnaturally large size of the woman who is in the water. Also the men in the painting are shown to be dressed in a very contemporary fashion which contrasts with the woman who is shown as classically nude. This give the nude woman a contemporary feel. These feature of the painting go against the norm of scenes being historically correct and extreme realism which was very popular in the past. Over all avant-garde in my opinion is very exploratory, innovative, and refreshing because it really strives to go beyond what people and artists considered to be great art.