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My first thought when I read the title was, "What a huge subject to attempt to cover in a single book!" My mind raced through key (white male) European artists from the early 20th century to the (largely white male) postwar expressionists in New York and subsequent American 'greats'. But it's actually the "Global" part of the book's title that actually makes this book truly comprehensive.
Art historian Pepe Karmel’s Abstract Art: A Global History moves beyond the traditional Eurocentric narratives about abstraction and its development. What unfolds in this book is a journey across continents, exploring how abstract art has developed not just in the West, but also in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.
One of the book’s strengths is its thematic structure. Karmel organizes the material around universal themes—such as nature, architecture, and the body—rather than adhering strictly to chronological order. This allows readers to see connections between artists from different regions and time periods, emphasizing how abstraction transcends national and cultural boundaries.
Nigerian American abstract artist, Odili Donald Odita, features in Karmel's book.
The book consists of hundreds of images of abstract art that complement Karmel’s insightful analysis. With these beautiful visuals, each section encouraged me reconsider familiar works by white Western male artists while also discovering lesser-known figures from around the world.
'Word Play XV' by Ethiopian-in-exile abstract artist, Wosene Worke Kosrof. Kosrof also appears in Karmel's book.
Karmel's careful attention to the global dimensions of abstraction, makes Abstract Art: A Global History inclusive and consequently revelatory. It's an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the breadth of this influential artistic movement.
Pete Stein
Founder, Galerie Stein
Montreal
Galerie Stein will be presenting several contemporary abstract expressionist artists both virtually at GalerieStein.com and in our gallery in Montreal in 2024.
Contact: Pete Stein at peter@GalerieStein.com
