American Abstract Artists

The American Abstract Artists (AAA), established in 1936 in New York City, was a collective pivotal in advancing abstract art in the United States. This group, primarily composed of painters and sculptors, emerged during a time when abstract art faced significant critical resistance. The American Abstract Artists's formation was a reaction to the prevalent dismissive attitude towards American abstract artists, especially after the Museum of Modern Art's exhibition in 1936 that featured only European abstract artists.

American Abstract Artists was instrumental in providing exhibition opportunities for abstract artists at a time when such platforms were scarce. They organized annual exhibitions, some of which traveled to commercial galleries, academic venues, and museums. The first American Abstract Artists exhibition in 1937 at the Squibb Gallery in New York attracted over 1500 visitors, indicating a burgeoning public interest in abstract art. This event was a significant milestone in popularizing non-objective art forms.

Founding members of American Abstract Artists included notable artists like Josef Albers, Ilya Bolotowsky, and Esphyr Slobodkina, among others. Their goal was to create a space for theoretical and practical discussions about abstract art. This group was diverse in its artistic approaches, with some members influenced by Surrealism and Expressionism, while others drew inspiration from the natural landscape.

The American Abstract Artists not only served as a refuge for adventurous artists but also played a critical role in the development and acceptance of abstract art in the United States. They were a predecessor to the New York School and Abstract Expressionism. The group's efforts significantly contributed to making New York City the center of the Western art world by the dawn of the 1950s. Their history and achievements are documented in various sources, including their own publications and journals, which offer insights into the evolution of abstract art in America.

For collectors and experts in art and antiques, understanding the American Abstract Artists's contributions provides a deeper appreciation of abstract art's journey in the 20th century. Their legacy is evident in the continued relevance and popularity of abstract art today.

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