Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

Which term describes a movement of artists that began in the early 20th century, characterized by abstract representation?

1. Fauvism

2. Abstract Art

3. Minimalism

4. Expressionism

The correct answer is: Abstract Art

The term that describes a movement of artists beginning in the early 20th century, characterized by abstract representation, is abstract art. This movement emerged as a response to the traditional depiction of subjects in art, focusing instead on the use of shapes, colors, forms, and gestural marks to achieve its effect. Abstract art emphasizes the expression of emotions and concepts rather than representing the physical world, allowing artists to explore their creativity beyond realistic boundaries. While movements like Fauvism and Expressionism also played significant roles in the development of modern art—Fauvism with its bold colors and expressionism with its focus on emotive representation—they are not as broadly defined in terms of abstract representation as the overarching movement of abstract art. Minimalism, on the other hand, offers a pared-down aesthetic and is often characterized by simplicity, focusing more on the essence of an object, which distinguishes it from the general concept of abstract representation.