THE SAN FRANCISCO SCHOOL OF ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM CONT’D
The effects of active combat deeply influenced the brand of rebellious politics, defiant attitudes, and the subjects these SF artists expressed in their painting. With horrid memories and experiences in their minds these veterans quickly formed fraternal alliances and embraced Abstract Expressionism as an important and cathartic way to release and express sensitive and emotionally charged feelings about the present state of our country and the world. There was a deep usually non voiced understanding these soldiers had and it lent something unique to the style of art they developed. While some of those feelings were anger and disgust, others showed appreciation of nature, improvisational jazz, and poetry. With the strong philosophical unity of these artists, a general comfort and non-proprietary attitude in the sharing of ideas and techniques became routine.
In sharp contrast, The New York School did not have these same feelings of unity and their artists influences and ideas were not as freely traded back and forth. Part of this was brought about by the fact that NY provided unparalleled opportunities for recognition through the numerous galleries and strong patrons, along with the enormous power of the critics and press.
San Francisco artists, with few chances to sell or promote their art were resigned to a much more supportive and interactive sharing of encouragement.
