Module 9: Cubism, Abstraction, Surrealism

This module explores the transformative movements of Modern Art at the turn of the 20th century, including Cubism, Abstraction, and Surrealism. You will study how political upheaval, industrialisation, social change, and mechanised warfare influenced artists and shaped the development of modern visual language.

Why This Module Matters

Understanding the leap from representation to abstraction and the rise of Surrealism is crucial for contextualising modern and contemporary art. This module demonstrates how artists contextualise their work within societal shifts and the avant-garde spirit of the early 20th century.

• Trace the evolution of visual language from Cubism through Abstract Art and Surrealist movements.
• Recognise how social, political, and industrialisation factors shaped modern artistic expression.
• Gain insight into the philosophies, techniques, and civilisations that influenced key modern artists.

By the end of Module 9, you will be able to analyse works from Cubism, Abstraction, and Surrealism in their historical, social, and cultural contexts.

What You’ll Learn

• Cubist Innovations
  How artists like Picasso and Braque challenged traditional perspective and representation.
• Abstract Art
  The shift from representational to pure abstraction, including Kandinsky and Kupka.
• Surrealist Philosophy & Technique
  Exploring the unconscious, automatism, and dream imagery in 1920s–30s Surrealism.
• Art in Social Context
  How industry, politics, and social change shaped art.

What You’ll Do

• Explore Cubist Works
  Examine Cubist compositions & understand their innovative approaches.
• Analyse Abstract Art
  Study abstract works, noting techniques and intent behind non-representational forms.
• Interpret Surrealism
  Investigate dream imagery, automatism, and the socio-cultural underpinnings of Surrealism.
• Contextual Comparison
  Compare artists' responses to industrialisation, social change, and globalisation.

Module Content

This module covers the following topics:

• Introduction: Modern Times
• Gallery Cubism: Putting Illusionism Through its Paces
• Salon Cubism: Painting Modern Life
• 1912-14: Breakthrough to Abstraction
• From Representation to Abstract Art
• The Russian Avant-Garde: Abstract Art as Realism
• Other Paths to Abstract Art: Kandinsky and Kupka
• Surrealism: The Formation of the Avant-Garde
• Surrealism in the 1920s: Automatism
• Surrealism in the 1930s: Dream Painting
• Surrealism from the 1930s On: Between Genders
• Conclusion

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 9, you will:

• Understand the key characteristics and innovations of Cubism, Abstract Art, and Surrealism.
• Be able to analyse and contextualise works in historical, cultural, and social contexts.
• Recognise the influence of industrialisation and globalisation on early 20th-century art.
• Develop confidence in interpreting modernist visual language and avant-garde techniques.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert tutors provide personalised guidance, helping you contextualise Cubist, Abstract, and Surrealist works. They will assist you in analysing techniques, philosophies, and social influences behind each movement, supporting your ability to recognise stylistic characteristics and contextualise artworks within historical, political, and civilisational frameworks.