The place of myth, symbol and primary effects in abstract art

This thesis aims to examine the structure of abstract art within the framework of mythology, symbols and primitivist influences and to examine the contributions of these elements to artistic expression. Abstract expression styles that developed with the emergence of modern art have not only been an aesthetic means of expression, but have also made it possible to reinterpret historical and cultural meanings. The thesis evaluates the concepts of myth, symbol and primitive art in abstract art through both form and layers of meaning. Mythological narratives are important fictions that historically constitute the collective memory of humanity and are represented with intuitive and symbolic structures instead of direct depictions in abstract art. In this context, it is observed that artists reshape mythological themes with their own narrative languages. Symbols are among the most important elements that increase the depth of meaning in abstract art; they enable the artist to indirectly bring his inner world and intellectual accumulation together with the audience. This thesis discusses how symbols contribute to the language of abstract art in historical and current contexts. The influence of primitive art, on the other hand, is not a definition based on race or culture, but rather the influence of primitive aesthetic perception on contemporary art. This influence manifests itself in abstract art with simple forms, use of natural materials and intuitive ways of expression. This thesis examines how primitivist understanding is reflected in the creative process of the abstract artist. The research is supported by literature review and art work analyses using qualitative research methods. As a result, it has been revealed that abstract art is not a simple aesthetic presentation, but a language that brings vii together the common heritage of humanity and individual expression possibilities. In the research, the place of mythological references, symbolic expression and primitivist influences in abstract art has been evaluated from a multi-faceted perspective.