Name: Class:
Cubism is a revolutionary art movement that emerged in
the early 1900s, mainly credited to the innovative work of
artists Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. This movement
fundamentally changed how art was perceived and
created, altering our understanding of representation and
perspective in visual art.Before the advent of Cubism,
artists were primarily focused on creating realistic
representations of the world, similar to photographs.
Traditional art emphasized perspective, depth, and
meticulous detail to capture the appearance of objects as
they would be seen by the human eye. However, Cubism
flipped this idea upside down
Instead of presenting objects from a single viewpoint, Cubism deconstructs them into geometric
shapes—such as cubes, spheres, and triangles—and displays them from multiple perspectives at
once. This technique allows viewers to see more than just the surface of an object, inviting them
to engage with the art on a deeper level.
Cubism can be broken down into two phases: Analytic Cubism and Synthetic Cubism. Analytic
Cubism, developed between 1907 and 1912, focused on breaking down objects into their basic
shapes and forms, often using a muted color palette. In contrast, Synthetic Cubism, which
emerged after 1912, introduced more vibrant colors and the incorporation of mixed media, such as
collage, reflecting the complexity and dynamism of modern life.
Cubism also reflected significant societal changes during the early 20th century. As
industrialization progressed, cities grew rapidly, and new technologies emerged. Artists were
responding to a world that was increasingly fast-paced and multifaceted. Through their work,
they aimed to capture the complexities of contemporary life, making Cubism not just a style of art
but also a means of social commentary.
As you explore Cubism, think about how this movement encourages new ways of seeing and
interpreting the world. Consider how it opens the door to expressing your own ideas through art.
Instructions:
Read the information above and answer the questions. Use complete sentences where indicated.
Cubism was pioneered by two main artists Who are the main artists associated with
cubism
Before Cubism, artists focused on creating realistic images. Cubism, however, changed
that approach. How is cubism different from traditional art
Cubism presents objects from different angles simultaneously. What does “multiple
viewpoints” mean in cubism
Cubism also reflects the societal changes of the early 1900s, including technology and
urban life. How did cubism show the changes happening in society during the early
1900s
Cubism was revolutionary in the art world. Why do you think cubism was a
groundbreaking movement in art
Cubism paved the way for future art movements. How did cubism affect later art styles
As you think about cubism, consider its influence on your own perspective.
How does cubism encourage you to see things in new ways?