The project I chose to explore is Inventing Abstraction by MoMA, an interactive digital humanities project that brings to life the intricate web of relationships among early 20th-century abstract artists. Instead of treating abstraction as the work of a few isolated geniuses, this project highlights how it evolved through a network of artists exchanging ideas, collaborating, and influencing one another over time. By visualizing these connections, MoMA makes a strong case for how social and intellectual relationships played a crucial role in shaping the rise of abstract art.
At the heart of this project is a fascinating network visualization where each node represents an artist who contributed to the movement. The map includes famous names like Pablo Picasso but also features lesser-known artists who played significant roles in pushing the boundaries of abstraction. The edges connecting these nodes represent documented relationships between artists, whether through direct acquaintance, collaboration, influence, or participation in shared artistic movements. Some artists stand out more than others, with their nodes appearing larger and marked in red, signaling their strong influence and extensive connections within the movement. The network also categorizes relationships in different ways, from formal mentorships and correspondence to co-exhibitions and intellectual exchanges.
One of the best parts of Inventing Abstraction is its interactive nature. Users can explore the web of connections by clicking on different nodes, which reveal detailed information about each artist—their birthplace, lifespan, artistic interests, and even images of their works. This feature transforms the experience into a kind of digital journey through the world of early abstraction, making it easy to see how these artists inspired one another. Instead of just reading about history, you get to navigate it yourself, tracing artistic relationships and uncovering the rich tapestry of influences that shaped the movement.
Ultimately, Inventing Abstraction is an engaging way to visualize how art history unfolds through human connections. By emphasizing the collaborative nature of abstraction, MoMA offers a refreshing take on how artistic movements grow—not in isolation, but through a constant exchange of ideas.
