Definition & Meaning of "color field"

What is "color field"?

Color field is an art movement that began in the 1940s and 1950s, mainly in the United States. It is known for its use of large, even areas of color to create a sense of space and emotion. Main artists in this movement include Mark Rothko, Barnett Newman, and Clyfford Still. Color field artists aimed to create paintings where color was the main focus, using it to create feelings and moods without relying on shapes or figures. Their work often included simple, bold color arrangements that emphasized the experience of looking at the painting itself. The movement aimed to express emotional and spiritual experiences through large areas of color, aiming for a straightforward and powerful visual impact.