Fish image in modern painting

ABSTRACT This thesis examines the historical evolution and artistic usage of fish imagery in modern painting. The fish symbol has carried different meanings across various cultures throughout history and has been represented in diverse artistic forms. From ancient times to the Middle Ages, from the Renaissance to modern art movements, the fish motif has undergone significant transformations, acquiring religious, mythological, and aesthetic connotations. This study explores the role of fish imagery within modern art movements, analyzing its interpretation in Fauvism, Surrealism, Abstract Art, Pop Art, and Conceptual Art. It investigates how artists have utilized the fish figure as a medium of expression and how this motif has been imbued with individual and societal meanings. Furthermore, the thesis discusses the relationship between fish imagery and ecological, political, and psychological themes, highlighting its multidimensional presence in modern art. In conclusion, this research provides a comprehensive analysis of the use of fish motifs in modern art, contributing to the fields of art history and visual culture. It aims to offer new perspectives for artists, art historians, and theorists.