Many Minimalist artists were also influenced by the notion of ‘nothingness’ derived from Hindu scriptures. Many have argued that Minimalism has its roots in Asia with many Western artists such as Agnes Martin taking on influences of Zen Buddhism in their practice. Minimalism also constituted the light and space movement, with many Minimalist artists finding their practice at its interstice. Many of the most prominent Minimalist artists were sculptors, and Minimalism also grew to transpire across other genres such as Land Art, where artworks are made in landscapes, creating sculptures on and from the earth. All the elements of expression, biography, complex subjects, and social agendas are removed, leaving viewers to interpret their works for what they are - a purified form of beauty and truth.ĭue to such a strong focus on basic elements, Minimalist Art was and is known as ABC Art. Minimalist artists, in complete contrast, were composed of simple lines and forms. Minimalist artists sought to move away from the expressive characteristics of Abstract Expressionism as they felt those works to be too excessive and emotional, and that they detracted from the essence of art itself. Developed in the United States in the 1960s, it surfaced as a reaction to Abstract Expressionism.

Minimalism as a genre occupies various forms of expression across art, design, music, and literature.

Famous minimalist artists 70s