14.1: Overview

Modern art began at the turn of the 20^th century and ushered in a complete and profound change in art and the world culture. On the edge of the industrial revolution, the steam train and the electric train, along with winged flight, changed how people traveled around the world. The new form of travel opened up the opportunity for millions of people as they discovered new territories, cultures, and ideas. The new ideas of a modern world brought new opportunities to create modern art; new art movements spread quickly and changed rapidly.

After two world wars, the world united mid 20^th century as globalization integrated cultures in new countries. There were significant art movements that engaged artists around the world as well as regional groups of artists that created specific styles of art. Art used the vast array of materials available through new technologies, moving beyond sculptures and painting on canvas, the world as their canvas with unabashed imagery. Chapter 14, The World is One (1960 CE – 1990s CE) follows the art of some of the creative artists who challenged the status quo.