Ultraists

Ultraism was a literary and artistic movement that emerged in Argentina in the early 20th century. Primarily active between 1918 and 1922, it is considered a precursor to Surrealism and a significant contribution to avant-garde art. The movement's main proponents were the Uruguayan poet and critic Julio Herrera y Reissig and the Argentine writers Jorge Luis Borges, Norah Lange, and Ricardo Güiraldes. Ultraism sought to break away from traditional literary forms and explore new avenues of expression, emphasizing innovation and the rejection of established norms.

Key tenets of Ultraism included the abolition of adjectives that were considered decorative or superfluous, the use of metaphors and neologisms, and a focus on imagery derived from modern life and technology. The movement embraced a spirit of experimentation, aiming to create poetry that was more dynamic and visually evocative. While its active period was relatively short, Ultraism had a lasting impact on Latin American literature, influencing subsequent generations of writers and artists. Its emphasis on conciseness, striking imagery, and the integration of everyday elements into artistic expression resonated with the evolving landscape of modern art. The movement's legacy lies in its bold challenge to conventional aesthetics and its pioneering efforts in the realm of avant-garde art.