Victor Pasmore (1908-1998) was a significant British artist known for his transformative journey from representational art to pioneering abstract art in Britain during the mid-20th century. This shift from figurative to abstract painting placed him at the forefront of the post-war British avant-garde.
Born in Surrey, England, Pasmore’s initial artworks were grounded in a naturalistic style. However, his artistic trajectory underwent a radical change in the 1940s when he began to explore abstraction. This shift was both daring and controversial, especially given the dominant traditional art landscape in Britain at the time.
Pasmore’s abstract works were characterized by their bold geometric forms, innovative use of color, and incorporation of collage elements. He also became deeply engaged with Constructivism, an art movement that originated in Russia and emphasized the art’s role in social change. In addition to his painting, Pasmore explored and developed new printmaking techniques, further solidifying his place as a modernist innovator.
In terms of inspirations, besides the Constructivist movement, Pasmore was influenced by artists like Piet Mondrian and Wassily Kandinsky. His move to abstraction was also contemporaneous with similar shifts by other British artists, such as Ben Nicholson and Barbara Hepworth.
Artists with styles akin to Pasmore’s during his abstract period include contemporaries like Anthony Hill and John Ernest, who also explored geometric abstraction and Constructivist principles in their work.
In summary, Victor Pasmore’s art reflects a journey of evolution and innovation. His transition from representational art to abstraction marked a pivotal moment in British art history, making him a seminal figure in the annals of 20th-century British modernism. His dedication to experimentation, both in painting and printmaking, stands as a testament to his ceaseless quest for artistic evolution and expression.
Useful Links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_Pasmore
https://www.wikiart.org/en/victor-pasmore
