The Role of Spontaneous Expression and Intuition in Creative Art

'The displaced'  by Peter Kreet  196.7
Acrylic on board  6ft. x  4ft.

Role of Spontaneous Expression.

The role of spontaneous expression and intuition play a central role in creative art. Particularly in the west a strong attitude of revolt is also required. Some of the most exciting work in the modern era embrace the concept of spontaneity. Expressionism is best described as a form of subjective interpretation of someone or something, beyond objective observation. The state of mind of the creator is reflected rather than an image conforming to what we may call the external world. Historically expressionism has been with us in many forms from the very earliest times through tribal cultures. During the Reformation its basic concepts are well expressed in Matthias Grunewald’s  “Crucifixion” c1513.

Expressionism in the modern sense made itself felt in the latter 19^th cent to the heady years of early 20^th cent art with the strong use of non-natural colour and distorted form. The idea behind this intuitive approach is the attempt to convey an inner feeling about the subject. This spontaneous response often presents itself in an eruption of irrational forces from within. Abstract Expressionism stands as a good example.

A number of years ago I painted a series of works based on a response to the Vietnam War. At the time I was living in Sydney and with the introduction of conscription the Australian population was divided. The exhibition at the time was closed down, but the real subject really dealt with the futile nature of war. I have posted a painting from the series so you can understand what I personally mean by expressionism.

 

                                                             ' Grim Reaper'  by Peter Kreet. 1967.
                                                               Acrylic on board  6ft. x 4ft.

It is reasonable to claim that often the idea expressed deals with an emotional turbulence within without conventional logic. Van Gogh an early exponent of expressionism underlines this abandonment of conventional logic, but this quality reinforces the power of expressionism to create meaning. Munch’s “Cry” with its use of violent colour and lineal distortion truly expresses the elemental emotion of fear, love and hate.

Northern Europe has long been the home of this type of expression, over the centuries the contrast between Italian and German art bears witness to these different approaches, were restraint was thrown to the wind.  Whether this is due to the long winters is hard to say, but I do believe our environment and personal circumstances play a part in artistic output. Most of us would accept that colour directly or indirectly reproduces personal responses.