Home » Fine Art Periods » Cubism » Synthetic Cubism » Flatness and Simultaneity
In Synthetic Cubism, artists continued to explore the concepts of flatness and simultaneity, building upon the foundations laid in Analytical Cubism.
Synthetic Cubism retained the emphasis on flatness that characterized earlier phases of Cubism. Artists continued to break down forms into geometric shapes and planes, creating compositions that appeared flattened and abstracted. However, in Synthetic Cubism, the flatness was often juxtaposed with textural elements and collage materials, adding depth and complexity to the surface of the artwork.
In Synthetic Cubism, artists used collage techniques to create flat surfaces that were visually dynamic and conceptually rich. Collage materials, such as newspaper clippings, wallpaper, and fabric, were often pasted onto the surface of the canvas in a flat, planar manner. These collage elements added texture and pattern to the composition while maintaining the overall flatness of the artwork.
Synthetic Cubism further explored the concept of simultaneity, which refers to the representation of multiple viewpoints or moments in time within a single artwork. Artists incorporated fragmented forms and overlapping elements into their compositions, creating compositions that appeared to depict multiple perspectives simultaneously. This emphasis on simultaneity added dynamism and movement to Synthetic Cubist artworks, challenging traditional notions of pictorial space and representation.
Synthetic Cubism often featured layering and transparency as compositional devices. Artists would layer different materials and collage elements on top of one another, creating compositions that were visually complex and layered. This layering added depth and dimensionality to the artwork while also creating a sense of transparency and opacity, further enhancing the overall sense of simultaneity and dynamism.
Synthetic Cubist artworks were characterized by their dynamic and energetic compositions. Artists embraced the juxtaposition of flat surfaces with textured elements, creating compositions that were visually striking and conceptually rich. The combination of flatness and simultaneity in Synthetic Cubism resulted in artworks that were visually dynamic, intellectually stimulating, and ahead of their time.
Synthetic Cubism continued to explore the concepts of flatness and simultaneity, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and challenging traditional notions of representation. By incorporating collage techniques and mixed media elements, Synthetic Cubist artists created artworks that were visually dynamic, conceptually rich, and ahead of their time.