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Coursera

In the Studio: Postwar Abstract Painting

The Museum of Modern Art via Coursera

Overview

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Step inside New York City artist studios in the years following War II to discover the intentionality behind abstract painting. This course offers an immersive, hands-on exploration of approaches that defined painting of that era. By deconstructing the materials and processes of artists Jackson Pollock, Yayoi Kusama, Mark Rothko, and others you will move into the mindset of the maker. Through a unique combination of studio demonstrations of artist’s techniques and behind-the-scenes look at paintings in The Museum of Modern Art’s world-class collection, you will develop a sophisticated studio practice. You’ll also gain a transferable set of skills centered on how ideas evolve through close observation and creative problem solving. Whether you are a student of fine art, a professional looking to unlock new modes of thinking, or a lifelong learner curious about painting, this course provides the intellectual and technical toolkit to transform a blank canvas into a powerful vehicle for expression.

Syllabus

  • Introduction
  • Barnett Newman
  • Willem de Kooning
  • Jackson Pollock
  • Mark Rothko
  • Agnes Martin
  • Ad Reinhardt
  • Yayoi Kusama
  • Yayoi Kusama: Lesson Choices
    • Choice 1: Final Project: Visual analysis essay | Choice 2: Final Project: Studio exercise and visual analysis essay

Taught by

Corey D'Augustine

Reviews

5.0 rating, based on 2 Class Central reviews

4.9 rating at Coursera based on 1509 ratings

Start your review of In the Studio: Postwar Abstract Painting

  • Profile image for Diane Schofield
    Diane Schofield
    18
    Fantastic course. It was so exciting to try all the different artist's techniques.; I learnt so much about my own painting practices and can honestly say it's one of the best courses I've taken. I hadn't painted for 6 years and this course got me back into my studio so I absolutely recommend it to anyone, whether they have painted before or not!
  • Katerina L. Xarchopoulou
    3
    It was very helpful for understanding the era these artists were creating art, struggling to make a mark in the art world. They are very well explained, in the studio presentation and glossary is really helpful. I am very happy that I came across this course. I am always going back to previous videos and articles. In this way I always find myself to have learned more things every time I retake a look. To be honest, every time a unit finishes, I wish it weren't. Pure joy for the mind and soul!

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