Litasviðs

Litasviðs is an Icelandic term that translates to "color field" or "color space." It refers to a type of abstract art characterized by large areas of solid color, often rectangular, that are presented on the canvas. This style emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, as a development from Abstract Expressionism.

Key features of Litasviðs art include its emphasis on the optical and emotional effects of color. Artists working in this style aimed to create immersive experiences for the viewer, allowing the colors themselves to convey meaning and feeling without recourse to representational imagery. The scale of these works is often large, further contributing to their enveloping effect. The flatness of the surface and the unmodulated application of paint are also common characteristics, focusing attention solely on the interplay of hues.

Prominent artists associated with this movement include Mark Rothko, Barnett Newman, and Clyfford Still. While the term Litasviðs is Icelandic, the artistic movement it describes is internationally recognized and has had a significant impact on subsequent art forms. The focus on pure color and its psychological impact continues to resonate in contemporary art.