Why is it called Cubism?

Cubism, as an influential art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, has been a subject of much fascination and study. To understand why it is called Cubism, we must delve into the historical context, the artists involved, and the distinctive characteristics that define the movement.

Step 1: Historical Context and Origins
The early 20th century was a time of great change and innovation in the world of art. The traditional ways of representing the three-dimensional world on a two-dimensional canvas were being challenged by artists who sought to break free from the constraints of perspective and form. This was the era that saw the rise of many modern art movements, and Cubism was one of the most revolutionary.

Step 2: The Artists Behind Cubism
The movement was pioneered by two artists, Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Picasso, a Spanish artist, and Braque, a French artist, independently began to explore new ways of depicting objects and figures. Their collaboration and mutual influence led to the development of a new visual language that would come to be known as Cubism.

Step 3: Characteristics of Cubism
Cubism is characterized by the fragmentation and reassembly of objects into geometric shapes, predominantly cubes, but also including other shapes like spheres and cylinders. This approach was a radical departure from traditional artistic techniques, which aimed to create a realistic and coherent representation of the subject. In Cubism, objects are deconstructed and then reassembled from multiple viewpoints, often within the same canvas. This multi-faceted approach to form and space was a direct response to the rapid technological and societal changes of the time, reflecting a new way of seeing and understanding the world.

Step 4: Analytical and Synthetic Cubism
Within the broader framework of Cubism, there are two main phases: Analytical Cubism and Synthetic Cubism. Analytical Cubism, which was the first type, involves breaking down the subject into its component parts and then reassembling these parts in a way that emphasizes structure and form. This phase is characterized by a monochromatic palette and a focus on the underlying structure of objects. Synthetic Cubism, which followed, introduced color and texture into the compositions, often incorporating elements like newspaper clippings and other materials into the artwork, creating a collage effect.

Step 5: Influence and Legacy
Cubism had a profound impact on the art world and beyond. It influenced not only the visual arts but also literature, music, and architecture. The movement's emphasis on abstraction and the rejection of traditional forms paved the way for other abstract movements such as Futurism, Expressionism, and Abstract Expressionism. The legacy of Cubism can still be seen in contemporary art, where the exploration of form, space, and perspective continues to be a central theme.

In conclusion, Cubism is called by that name because of its unique approach to representing the world through geometric shapes, primarily cubes. This was a conscious choice by the artists to challenge the viewer's perception and to reflect the fragmented nature of modern life. The movement, initiated by Picasso and Braque, has left an indelible mark on the history of art, shaping the way we understand and interact with visual representations.

It is called Cubism because the items represented in the artworks look like they are made out of cubes and other geometrical shapes. Cubism was first started by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque. Analytical Cubism is the first type of cubism.