October 2020

by Manushri Bapat

Edited by Uday Lingampalli & Harvi Karatha, Layout by Vrinda Gandhi, Artwork by Sharon Pan

The word “aesthetic” has risen in popularity—the niche memes, artsy outfits, and film photography have added a cinematic feel to the word. This society of aesthetics is deeply intertwined with art and creativity; with trends such as fashion serving as a gateway for self-expression.

With the glaringly obvious popularity of various styles of “aesthetic” (i.e. skater girl/boy, y2k, retro, vintage, etc), several subdivisions in art and their creation have taken over. A more freestyle

method of art has peaked: this has become more mainstream through social media apps such as Instagram and TikTok. The internet has branched into a showcase for various outfits and artworks, which has given way to a major shift in the way that art mediums and styles are used. Digital platforms such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator Draw, and Procreate have aided collages and digital art in becoming more “mainstream.”

These expressive art forms have spiked in usage throughout the 21st century, but they stem from times dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Regardless of the original purpose of the various art pieces created in the styles of art similar to today, most have reflected deep emotion—typically in response to a political or societal catalyst. Art created after World War II was apparent in this: artists used bold colors, clear shapes, and a jumble of patterns to characterize their feelings towards the rest of the world.

On the other hand, similar to today’s realm of art culture, some historic “abstract” art served as a defining characteristic of the time period. One very “iconic” example of this is Andy Warhol’s various pop art forms—his style became a notorious definition of the 1960-1980 era (in terms of art). In today’s more modern approach in recreating these

pieces, artists and creators have integrated mixed media such as photographs, newspaper clippings, poetry, and bright colors with patterns onto digital canvases. Today’s versions of this art style serve as a direct reflection on the current social, political, and global crises and/or struggles, with many acting as a satire of sorts in order to bring light to a particular issue.

Modern “aesthetic” art is something that will continue to develop and change over time; as our modern world evolves by the minute, art remains a constant escape for people to be able to express themselves. Abstract and more expressional art, such as collages, have sustained popularity for so long because we, as a society, find the communicative ability—the power it wields—irresistible.