In the early 20th century, art movements such as Cubism and Futurism emerged, challenging traditional representations of form and space. Artists like Pablo Picasso and Kazimir Malevich broke away from realistic portrayals, creating works that emphasized abstraction. These movements not only changed the landscape of visual art but also influenced literature, architecture, and design. Cubism focused on fragmented forms and multiple perspectives, while Futurism celebrated speed, technology, and modernity. Both movements sought to capture the dynamism of the modern world and react against the constraints of academic art.
As these artistic revolutions unfolded, they encouraged viewers to engage with art on a new level, prompting questions about the nature and purpose of artistic expression. Many critics of these movements argued that abandoning traditional forms was a departure from the very essence of art. Nonetheless, the legacy of Cubism and Futurism continues to be felt in contemporary art, where the boundaries of creativity are continually being pushed.