Tendency of abstraction within the context of culture and art

The thesis titled "Tendency of Abstraction within the Context of Culture and Art," examines the concept of "abstraction" as a prevalent tendency. This exploration is based on the fundamental assumption that abstraction is an inherent reflex within both the psychological and physical makeup of human beings. All cognitive activities and modes of production, including basic logical reasoning, are achieved through this "tendency of abstraction." Analyzing abstraction through the lenses of representation, depiction, and imitation reveals various frameworks. It becomes evident that abstraction is fundamental to language, semiotics, and the study of signs. Building on Wilhelm Worringer's influential work "Abstraction and Empathy," the thesis critically analyzes the constructs of identification and abstraction, juxtaposing them with opposing viewpoints within the dynamics of contemporary discourse. Abstract painting, while not the primary focus of this study, is relevant in understanding the concept of "abstraction" due to the conditions and internal transformations of abstract art. Consequently, the tendencies toward abstraction in artworks from the mid-19th century to the year 2000 are examined. The discussion includes differences between examples where abstraction is perceived as a style and those where the abstract is exalted. By considering the social and cultural characteristics within each period, the aim is to emphasize the feature of abstraction as an unconscious mechanism. In light of the pre-21st century period, this study examines the origins of "contemporary" art, defined as post-2000, to scrutinize how abstraction functions in the present day. The primary objective in exploring works that perpetuate the tradition of abstract painting, yet do not center on abstraction, is to uncover an atemporal significance within the concept of abstraction. Furthermore, the study delves into the tendencies toward abstraction in art practices that evolve outside the conventional painting tradition, considering factors such as the artist's contextual conditions, motivations, and focal points. Ultimately, this investigation refrains from positing a conclusive assertion that abstraction exists as a ubiquitous tendency across all practices. Rather, it aims to provide a comprehensive research framework by analyzing related concepts within diverse contexts and examples.