From ancient times, Europe has been the centre of art expression and the same is true today with many of the world’s top contemporary artists living in Europe. Many of these European contemporary artists help to expand mental images of what art really is. The art work of Monet and Rembrand is appreciated, but it’s nice to know that some modern day artists are expanding their work to include other modes of expression.
Keith Coventry
Born in Great Britain, Mr Coventry’s art work specializes in abstract paintings and art work that speaks of today’s society and issues. Whether using paint or photographs, some of his work is controversial. He was awarded the 2010 John Moore Painting Prize for his piece named “Spectrum Jesus.”
Christo and Jean-Claude
This married couple, both interested in art, married and combined to create some of the most famous contemporary European art. In 1994, the couple decided it was easier to market their work under just one name, that of Christo. In addition to aesthetic paintings, the couple is also known for abstract art using everyday objects. One of their most famous ventures included their exhibit, “The Umbrellas”. The couple created 2 transcontinental exhibits- one in Japan and one in California. Japan hosted the blue exhibit while California showed the yellow version.
Mircea Cantor
This Romanian born artist’s first art expressions were traditional art forms on canvas. Cantor expanded his art work to include sculptures and modern art displays using everyday items. He was recently awarded the Marcel Duchamp Prize for his art work entitled “Fishing Flies.”
Martin Boyce
A Scottish born artist, Mr Boyce specialized in contemporary sculpture, before expanding to other art mediums. His art work is often abstract in nature, using wood, glass, metal and other objects. His piece, ” Do Words Have Voices” won the 2011 Turner Prize. This award is given to British artists under the age of 50 who have made a contribution to European art.
Katherine Morling
When one thinks new art forms have been exhausted, along comes a contemporary British artist, Katherine Morling. Her art medium of choice is ceramic. Concentration on household items represented in surreal ceramic art expressions proves to be her specialty. One of her most famous works thus far is named “Poison Pen.”
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