What is Cubism?

Cubism is an avant-garde art movement that emerged in the early 20th century, revolutionising visual representation by rejecting traditional perspective and embracing geometric abstraction. Developed by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque between 1907 and 1908, Cubism broke objects down into fragmented, overlapping planes, allowing multiple viewpoints to be seen simultaneously.

Influenced by African art, the late works of Paul Cezanne and modern urban life, Cubism challenged conventional notions of space, form and reality. Notable works include Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon and Braque’s Violin and Candlestick. Other influential Cubists include Juan Gris, known for his vibrant, structured compositions, and Fernand Léger, who incorporated machine-like forms. Cubism’s radical approach influenced later movements, such as Futurism, Constructivism and Abstract Expressionism, reshaping modern art and paving the way for non-representational abstraction.

What are the characteristics of Cubism?

Cubism is characterised by fragmented forms, geometric abstraction and multiple perspectives. Cubist compositions often appear flattened and two-dimensional, with little depth or shading.

Analytical Cubism (1908–1912) used muted, monochromatic colours, emphasising structure and form through complex, interwoven facets. It deconstructed subjects into angular shapes, focusing on visual analysis rather than realism. In contrast, Synthetic Cubism (1912–1914) employed brighter colours, simpler shapes and collage techniques, incorporating found materials like newspaper and fabric.

Cubism rejected illusionistic traditions, instead exploring the relationship between form and space on the canvas. Its emphasis on abstraction and reassembled reality reflected the modern, fragmented experience of the early 20th century.