Art is subjective and there are many different types of classification of different art forms. In this modern era, the most popular forms of art are “contemporary,” “modern,” and “abstract” expressionism. 

Though what are the differences between these types of art forms?  

First up is “Modern Art”  and this is an expression which is widely used in the cultural zeitgeist these days. For many, Modern art is a classification of art forms that started around 1870 and includes famed Impressionists such as Claude Monet.  

Abstract art is still being produced these days and are paintings which are a distinctive departure from reality and was definitely modern at the time and amongst its ranks of artists who are well known for abstract art as the likes of  Pablo Picasso and Jackson Pollock. 

The term “contemporary” art is used to define artwork which is being created in our lifetime or in the current present moment so generally from the 1970s until now. 

Art is ever evolving and maybe the new generation of creatives will inspire a new wave of art forms. 

Our ESF Language & Learning Art Teacher, Huiwen Cheung, was happy to answer some questions about her career as an art teacher and which current and historical artists inspire her. 

1. When did you first become interested in art as a full time career and where did the passion come from?

“At the age of 4-5, my first memory and experience of painting, it was super exciting and to have the anticipation to to put on an apron, stand with an easel, pots of paint, paintbrush and ready to start. I painted a house with weather elements,  however, I painted too long, the paint started to drip and desaturate my colours. 

I always loved drawing, as a language to express ideas and feelings. I believe passion grows from doing this daily, over a long period of time,  finding your why for art and being with like minded creatives to spark off new ideas and directions. 

I first became interested in art as a full time career when I studied MA Fine Art at the University of Sunderland. I met inspiring Artists and realised this is possible and I have been on this journey since to create and make a difference.” 

2. Everyone says art is subjective as people view beauty differently - What type of art and artists do you appreciate and admire? 

“Art is easily accessible to everyone in the 21st Century, you can be inspired by 2000 years of artworks, Art History, culture, traditional and contemporary from every nation. I admire art that has a story, meaningful and daring. I believe art mirrors our lives, bringing out mysteries of the invisible into the visible realm. I admire artists who can make the work come to life, transforming our perspectives of reality and truth.

I appreciate the works and words of Michelangelo, Matthias Grünewald, Vincent Van Gogh, Lee Krasner, Joan Mitchell,  Anselm Kiefer, Katharina Grosse, and many more artists continue to inspire my work as an artist and art educator.” 

3. Can creativity be learnt or is it intuitive? 

“I believe creativity is naturally inside each person, every person has the potential to use skill and imagination to produce something unique and personal. However, learners would benefit from training, opportunities and environment, so to tune in, with insight, understanding, knowledge with all kinds of skills to work in a career in art and design.”

4. What type of art do you teach? 

“My specialism is work in Fine Art and I teach and offer all kinds of art and design to learners. I studied MA in Fine Art that includes drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, video editing and mixed media.  I immensely enjoy exploring a wide range of specialisms, combinations of media, techniques and test the qualities of what each media, materials can offer and be used to express ideas. It could be realism, abstract, contemporary, western, non western art.”

5. If someone's child is talented at art - How can this natural ability be nurtured and developed? 

“I would advise learners to try all kinds of art and design, western, non western art, experimenting with a combination of media, processes and techniques. Develop the foundations in the elements of art and principles of design;  knowledge of the history of art and visiting art museums. Talent alone is not sufficient, learners must allow time to make, explore, persevere and not be afraid to work hard.”  

6. They say music helps people as they draw or paint - Is this true?

“It depends on each individual, some artists enjoy working in silence and some with music. I really enjoy working with music, especially when I make my work whether abstract or representational. Wassily Kandinsky, Jackson Pollock, Piet Mondrian all had their favourite playlists, so why not put on your playlist and have a go!”

“It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.” 

Vincent Van Gogh

Learn with Huiwen over the Summer at her Abstract and Contemporary Art Course!