Postminimalism

Postminimalism, an evolution from minimalism during the late 1960s and early 1970s, is characterized by its departure from the austere aesthetics of minimalism. This art movement often incorporates a variety of materials like fiberglass, wire mesh, latex, and cloth, as observed in the collections at the Des Moines Art Center in Iowa and the Dia Art Foundation. Artists like Robert Smithson, with his notable work "Spiral Jetty," and Vito Acconci, known for "Trademarks," exemplify postminimalism's embrace of process, time, and environmental themes.

Smithson's "Spiral Jetty" in particular, located at the Great Salt Lake, Utah, is a quintessential piece demonstrating the postminimalist interest in natural processes and environmental interaction. The artwork's coiling structure and use of native materials highlight the themes of decay and transformation in nature.

On the other hand, Vito Acconci's "Trademarks" showcases the postminimalist fascination with the human form and the materiality of the body. His work, often crossing into the realms of Performance and Conceptual art, uses his body as a medium to explore personal and taboo themes.

The movement, though American in origin, resonated globally, influencing various art forms and styles. Postminimalism's inclination towards softer, more pliable materials and its divergence from the strict, geometric aesthetics of minimalism marked a significant shift in the art world. This shift was evident in exhibitions like "Eccentric Abstraction," curated by critic Lucy Lippard, and the Whitney Museum's "Anti-Illusion: Procedures/Materials," which highlighted the movement's break from representational sculpture.

Towards the end of the 20th century, postminimalism's influence paved the way for art exploring identity politics, gender, and racial issues. Though the movement waned in the 1980s with the resurgence of traditional mediums like painting, its impact on contemporary art remains significant​​​.

For collectors, auctioneers, and experts in art and antiques, postminimalism offers a rich and varied field of study. Its diverse materials, innovative forms, and thematic depth make it a compelling area for exploration and investment.

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