Modernist: original voices
Henry Moore (1898–1986) is the most famous Modernist artist, whose singular vision gave us Madonna and Child and Reclining Figure. Next stand Amrita Sher-Gil, Sidney Nolan, Barbara Hepworth and Emily Carr. These 46 artists, from Pedro Alexandrino Borges (born 1856) to Abdul Latiff Mohidin (born 1941), came from 17 countries.
Our selection. Artists whose works our catalogue attaches to Modernist, in the order of our fame ranking. Artists born after 1955 with no Wikidata identifier stay out until verified. The Wikipedia figure counts our 32 languages with an article on the artist.
In brief
One artist at a time
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British Born in Castleford Modernism, Abstract sculpture Wikipedia in 29/32 languages
However, Moore wasn't simply a follower of trends; he synthesized these influences into something uniquely his own. A pivotal moment came during a visit to Mexico in 1925, where he encountered pre-Columbian sculptures – particularly those of the Aztec civilization.
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Hungarian-Indian Born in Budapest Modern Indian art, Avant-garde Wikipedia in 20/32 languages
Amrita Sher-Gil’s style is instantly recognizable for its bold use of color, simplified forms, and expressive figures. She didn’t merely depict what she saw; she imbued her paintings with emotion, creating works that are both visually stunning and deeply moving. She is rightfully regarded as a pioneer of modern Indian painting, bridging Western artistic techniques with indigenous traditions and paving the way for future generations of artists.
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Australian Born in Carlton Modernist Wikipedia in 19/32 languages
He traveled extensively throughout his life – Europe, Africa, America – each journey informing his art with new perspectives and influences. Despite achieving international recognition, Nolan remained deeply connected to Australia, viewing his art as a means of understanding and interpreting its unique character. Sir Sidney Nolan’s impact on Australian art is undeniable.
Signature works · The 100 signature works
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English Born in Wakefield Modernism, Surrealism, Abstraction Wikipedia in 22/32 languages
Rather than modeling clay to be cast later, she worked directly into the medium, allowing the material to dictate the final form. She utilized chiselling and carving to shape marble and wood, often painting the hollows of her forms to manipulate how light and shadow interact with the interior surfaces. In St Ives, Cornwall, the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden offers a different kind of preservation.
Where to see Her physical presence in the art world remains anchored by The Hepworth Wakefield in Wakefield, United Kingdom.
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Canadian Born in Victoria Modernism, Post-Impressionism
She pursued formal training at the San Francisco Art Institute (1890-1892) and later at the Westminster School of Art in London (1899), immersing herself in European artistic currents. Yet, she found herself increasingly drawn back to her native British Columbia, recognizing that true artistic expression lay not in imitation but in authentic representation of her own experience. Though recognition came relatively late in life, Emily Carr is now widely celebrated as “the Mother of Modern Canadian Art.” Her paintings are treasured for their beauty, their emotional depth, and their historical significance.
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Austrian-American Born in Vienna Twelve-tone technique; Expressionism Wikipedia in 31/32 languages
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Italian Born in Milan Modernism, Minimalism
Vignelli's path led him to America in 1966, where he became instrumental in establishing the New York office of Unimark International. Unimark quickly rose to prominence, and Vignelli’s contributions – most notably the enduring logo for American Airlines – solidified his reputation as a master of corporate identity. Perhaps his most recognizable achievement is the redesign of the New York City Subway map in 1972.
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Brazilian Born in Cachoeira do Sul Brazilian Modernism
Born on September 1, 1886, in Capivari, São Paulo, into a prosperous coffee-producing family, Tarsila's upbringing afforded her opportunities uncommon for women of her time. This privilege allowed her to pursue artistic training, initially under the guidance of Pedro Alexandrino Borges before embarking on a transformative journey to Paris in 1920. Her influence extended beyond the realm of painting, inspiring generations of Brazilian artists and shaping the nation's cultural landscape.
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Welsh Born in Haverfordwest Modernist Wikipedia in 17/32 languages
The pivotal moment in John’s artistic trajectory arrived with her move to Paris in 1903. She quickly found herself drawn into the orbit of Auguste Rodin, becoming his model and, for nearly a decade, his lover. She lived a largely secluded life in Meudon, a suburb of Paris, from 1910 until her death, producing work that received limited recognition during her years.
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American Born in Rutherford Modernism, Watercolor Wikipedia in 16/32 languages
John Marin, born in Rutherford, New Jersey, on December 23, 1870, experienced a childhood marked by early loss. His mother’s passing just nine days after his birth led to his upbringing by maternal aunts in Weehawken, overlooking the bustling cityscape of New York City across the Hudson River. His travels extended beyond France, encompassing the Netherlands, Belgium, England, and Italy, each locale contributing to a distinctive watercolor technique characterized by an interplay of abstract ambience, transparency, opacity, and dynamic linear elements.
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Born in Philadelphia Wikipedia in 14/32 languages
Throughout the 1920s, Davis developed his distinctive mature style. He began creating abstract still lifes and landscapes characterized by a proto- pop art element, incorporating contemporary subject matter like cigarette packages and spark plug advertisements into his compositions. Robert Henri: Provided foundational training and encouraged direct observation of life.
Signature works · The 100 signature works
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Brazilian Born in Curitiba Modernism, Brutalism
Artigas’s architectural style wasn't static; it was a dynamic process of exploration and refinement, reflecting both the changing currents of global design and his own evolving artistic vision. The initial period, from 1937 to 1945, clearly demonstrates the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright, particularly in his residential designs—a focus on organic forms and a harmonious integration with the surrounding landscape. His journey began at the Polytechnic School of the University of São Paulo, where he earned his degree in 1937, an education that would serve as the bedrock for a career defined by innovation and a deep commitment to the Brazilian people.
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American Born in Lewiston American Modernism Wikipedia in 16/32 languages
Notable Works: The Ice Hole, Autumn Color, Portrait of a German Officer, Mt.
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Uruguayan Born in Montevideo Latin American Modernism Wikipedia in 11/32 languages
For decades, Figari balanced his legal and political commitments with intermittent artistic endeavors. The move to Buenos Aires in 1921 proved catalytic. He demonstrated that true modernity wasn’t about imitating European trends but about finding one's own voice—a lesson that resonated throughout Latin America and beyond.
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Korean Born in Gyeongnam Province Modern Korean Art
lee, jung-seob, a prominent south korean artist, left an indelible mark on the art world with his captivating oil paintings. born in pyeongannamdo, south korea in 1916, lee's artistic journey was marked by innovation and a deep connection with his heritage.
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American Born in Canandaigua Abstract Modernism Wikipedia in 12/32 languages
The turning point in Dove’s artistic journey arrived with his move to Paris in 1907. Exhibiting at the Salon d’Automne in 1908 and 1909, he began to develop a style that moved away from direct representation towards an increasingly subjective interpretation of nature. Stieglitz provided Dove with crucial exposure, hosting his first solo exhibition at the 291 gallery in 1912—a landmark event that marked a turning point in American art history.
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French Born in Chantilly Modernist photography
The Instituto Moreira Salles acquired his complete collection in 1999—a testament to its cultural significance—comprising around 25,000 images that span a vast array of themes. Major Themes: Architecture, landscapes, people, social commentary, urban development, the construction of Brasília. His journey began in Paris, where a budding interest in the principles of Bauhaus design led him towards an apprenticeship he ultimately abandoned, finding himself instead captivated by the power of visual storytelling while archiving images at the Musée de l'Homme in 1936.
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Born in Sassari Wikipedia in 10/32 languages
Early work was heavily influenced by Divisionism, a technique emphasizing separated colors to create luminosity – exemplified in works like “ The Student.”. Briefly experimented with Futurism around 1914, exhibiting at the Galleria Sprovieri in Rome.
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British-American Modernist watercolor
His use of light and shadow was masterful, lending depth and realism to his subjects. Despite the technical detail, his paintings never feel cold or sterile; there's a warmth and humanity that permeates each piece. His paintings are now included in museum collections across the United States, testament to their artistic merit and historical significance.
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Uruguayan Born in Montevideo Modernism, Vibrationism Wikipedia in 8/32 languages
Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, in 1890, Rafael Pérez Giménez Barradas emerged as a pivotal figure in the burgeoning modernist movement of the early 20th century. Though largely self-taught, he honed his skills as an illustrator for newspapers and magazines in both Montevideo and Buenos Aires, laying the groundwork for a unique visual language. It was here, amidst the intellectual ferment of Spanish artistic life, that he developed his signature style – Vibrationism.
21of 46
Born in Baghdad
Upon returning to Baghdad, Al Said immersed himself in the study of Yahya ibn Mahmud al-Wasiti’s work, a significant figure in Islamic miniature painting. The poetry and philosophy of Mansur al-Hallaj, a controversial Sufi mystic, also played a crucial role in shaping his aesthetic sensibilities.
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Born in New Malden
Early Influences: Initially influenced by Henry Moore, with whom he worked as a studio assistant from 1951-1953. Turning Point: A 1959 Ford Foundation scholarship led to a transformative trip to the United States, where he encountered American Abstract Expressionism and met key figures like Clement Greenberg, Kenneth Noland, and David Smith.
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Brazilian Born in Rio de Janeiro Abstract, Geometric
He wasn't interested in representational accuracy; instead, he sought to evoke emotion and create atmosphere through the interplay of shape, line, and hue. Notable works like “ Untitled ” (a testament to his innovative metalwork) and the evocative “Sabará” demonstrate this unique aesthetic sensibility. The Fundação Athos Bulcão, established in Brasília in 1992, stands as a testament to his enduring legacy, dedicated to preserving his work, fostering education, and inspiring future generations of artists.
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French Born in Johor Bahru ['Divisionism', 'Cubism', 'Orphism', 'Abstract art']
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Portuguese Born in Porto Abstractionism, Expressionism
The Parisian experience exposed him to the avant-garde movements reshaping the artistic landscape, particularly the powerful works of Picasso and Goya. His work became characterized by a lyrical quality, incorporating elements of Expressionism, Neo- Realism, Gesturalism, and Non-figuration – a syncretic approach reflecting his diverse influences and personal vision. There, at the Académie de Grande Chaumière and the Paris Academy of Fine Arts, he delved into fresco and engraving techniques, expanding his technical repertoire.
Signature works · The 100 signature works
27of 46
Iraqi Born in Baghdad Cubism, Abstract Art
as the father of iraqi modern art, faeq hassan's legacy continues to influence the iraqi art scene. his pioneering efforts in establishing al-ruwad and his unique artistic style have made him a celebrated figure in the world of art.
28of 46
Portuguese Born in Lisbon Modernist architecture
Keil do Amaral’s formal artistic training began with studies in advertising design, followed by enrollment in the Architecture course at Lisbon's School of Fine Arts in 1930. This period saw Keil do Amaral embrace purism and rational design principles, evident in projects like the Instituto Pasteur in Porto (1933-1935).
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Portuguese Born in São Tomé Modernism, Futurism
Born in São Tomé, Portugal, his upbringing instilled within him a deep connection to the colonial landscape and its cultural heritage, shaping his artistic sensibilities from an early age. Almada Negreiros’ artistic pursuits extended far beyond the realm of painting alone. Stylistic Innovation: The successful synthesis of Art Nouveau, Futurism, and Surrealism.
Signature works · The 100 signature works
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Sudanese Born in Omdurman African Modernism, Hurufiyya movement Wikipedia in 6/32 languages
Born in the historic city of Omdurman, Sudan, on September 5, 1930, Ibrahim El-Salahi stands as a monumental figure in the landscape of global modernism. While his roots remained firmly planted in Sudanese soil, his artistic consciousness was shaped by a globalized perspective. Cultural Diplomacy through Art: Through his unique aesthetic, he bridged the gap between Islamic traditions and Western modernist movements.
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Iraqi Born in Tikrit Pan-Arab modern, Abstractionism, Hurufiyya
al-nasiri taught at several prestigious institutions, including the institute of fine arts in baghdad, yarmouk university in jordan, and university of bahrain. his passing in 2013 in amman, jordan, marked the end of an era for iraqi modern art.
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Canadian Born in Saugeen Shores Modernism Wikipedia in 7/32 languages
His painting “Red Nasturtiums” was even honored on a Canada Post stamp in 1992, solidifying his place within the nation’s cultural heritage.
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American Born in Lisbon Harlem Renaissance Wikipedia in 9/32 languages
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American Born in Florence Harlem Renaissance, Expressionism, Folk Art Wikipedia in 6/32 languages
The story of William Henry Johnson is one of profound transformation, a journey that began in the humble landscapes of Florence, South Carolina, and ascended to the heights of the international modernist stage. Notable masterpieces such as The Black Christ demonstrate his profound use of Yoruba symbolism, bridging the gap between ancestral spirituality and contemporary struggle.
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Portuguese Born in Leiria Modernist Art Wikipedia in 3/32 languages
This period also saw him expanding his horizons beyond France; a brief excursion into Italy in 1907 exposed him to Italian Impressionism, fostering a comparative understanding of stylistic approaches that would later enrich his unique visual language.
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Born in Istanbul Wikipedia in 8/32 languages
Dino’s formal education was briefly interrupted when he left Robert College to dedicate himself fully to art. In 1933, alongside other innovative painters, he co-founded the “D Group”, a collective that challenged conventional artistic norms in Turkey. Born on March 23, 1913, in Istanbul, Turkey, Abidin Dino came from an art-loving family.
Signature works · The 100 signature works
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Canadian Born in Toronto Modernism Wikipedia in 4/32 languages
Historical Presence: Her active participation in major national exhibitions that helped establish a distinct Canadian identity in the global art dialogue. As we look back on her century-long life, which concluded in 1996, we see an artist who did not merely observe the changing world but actively participated in its transformation through the power of paint and vision. The artistic soul of Housser was forged in the prestigious halls of the Ontario College of Art, where she studied between 1913 and 1918.
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Canadian Born in Oshawa Modernism Wikipedia in 4/32 languages
Further studies in Paris at the Scandinavian Academy in 1929-30, and later with Emil Bisttram in New Mexico exploring Dynamic Symmetry, broadened her artistic horizons. A particularly significant period was her collaboration with fellow Canadian artist Prudence Heward in Europe during 1930.
Signature works · The 100 signature works
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Spanish Born in Listowel Surrealism Wikipedia in 2/32 languages
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Brazilian Born in Rio de Janeiro Brazilian Modernism Wikipedia in 6/32 languages
He skillfully blended Cubist fragmentation with a vibrant color palette and fluid lines, creating a style that was both modern and deeply rooted in Brazilian culture. Beyond painting, Di Cavalcanti also explored interior design, demonstrating his versatility as an artist. Di Cavalcanti’s artistic legacy extends far beyond the canvases he created.
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Brazilian Born in São Paulo Latin American Modernism Wikipedia in 1/32 languages
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Argentine-Brazilian Born in Lanús Art Deco Wikipedia in 3/32 languages
carybé held the honorary position of obá de xangô at ilê axé opô afonjá. his contributions to the art world are not only celebrated in argentina but also in brazil, where he spent a significant part of his life.
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Brazilian Born in Recife Cubist & Modernism Wikipedia in 3/32 languages
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Brazilian Born in São Paulo Abstract Painting, Grupo Santa Helena Wikipedia in 3/32 languages
aldo cláudio felipe bonadei passed away in são paulo on january 16, 1974, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential brazilian painters of his time. his contributions to abstract art have had a lasting impact on the country's artistic landscape. view more works by aldo cláudio felipe bonadei: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/aldo-claudio-felipe-bonadei](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/aldo-claudio-felipe-bonadei)
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Australian Born in Summer Hill Modernism, Abstract Art Wikipedia in 2/32 languages
modernist sculpture: hinder's work in this area is considered a benchmark for australian modernism. art education: as an art teacher, he influenced generations of artists, shaping the country's artistic landscape.
Signature works · The 100 signature works
Signature works
A timeline
Figures
| Brazil | 7 |
|---|---|
| Canada | 5 |
| United States | 5 |
| Portugal | 5 |
| United Kingdom | 4 |
| Australia | 3 |
| Italy | 3 |
| Iraq | 3 |
| 1850s | 1 |
|---|---|
| 1860s | 1 |
| 1870s | 6 |
| 1880s | 4 |
| 1890s | 8 |
| 1900s | 6 |
| 1910s | 12 |
| 1920s | 3 |
| 1930s | 3 |
| 1940s | 2 |
Every name
Henry MooreBritish · 1898–1986Amrita Sher-GilHungarian-Indian · 1913–1941Sidney NolanAustralian · 1917–1992Barbara HepworthEnglish · 1903–1975Emily CarrCanadian · 1871–1945Arnold SchoenbergAustrian-American · 1874–1951Massimo Vignelli, Vignelli AssociatesItalian · 1931–2014Tarsila do AmaralBrazilian · 1886–1973Gwen JohnWelsh · 1876–1939John MarinAmerican · 1870–1953Stuart Davis1892–1964João Batista Vilanova ArtigasBrazilian · 1915–1985Marsden HartleyAmerican · 1877–1943Pedro FigariUruguayan · 1861–1938Lee, Jung-SeobKorean · 1916–1956Arthur DoveAmerican · 1880–1946Marcel GautherotFrench · 1910–1996Mario Sironi1885–1961Theodore HancockBritish-American · 1923–1989Rafael BarradasUruguayan · 1890–1929Shakir Hassan Al-Said1925–2004Sir Anthony Alfred Caro1924–2013Athos Bulcão de Almeida LimaBrazilian · 1918–2008Abdul Latiff MohidinFrench · born 1941
Maxwell Spencer Dupain Ac ObeAustralian · 1911–1992Júlio ResendePortuguese · 1917–2011Faeq Hassan, Fayiq Hassan, Faik HassanIraqi · 1914–1992Francisco Keil Do AmaralPortuguese · 1910–1975José Sobral De Almada NegreirosPortuguese · 1893–1970
Marieda di StefanoItalian · 1931–2010Ibrahim El-SalahiSudanese · born 1930Rafa Al-NasiriIraqi · 1940–2013David MilneCanadian · 1882–1953Carlos BotelhoAmerican · 1899–1982William H. JohnsonAmerican · 1901–1970Adriano De Sousa LopesPortuguese · 1879–1944Abidin Dino1913–1993Yvonne McKague HousserCanadian · 1897–1996Isabel McLaughlinCanadian · 1903–2002Pegi Nicol MacLeodSpanish · 1904–1949Di CavalcantiBrazilian · 1897–1976Pedro Alexandrino BorgesBrazilian · 1856–1942CarybéArgentine-Brazilian · 1911–1997Vicente Do Rêgo MonteiroBrazilian · 1899–1970Aldo BonadeiBrazilian · 1906–1974Frank HinderAustralian · 1906–1992Questions
First place goes to Henry Moore (#1); Amrita Sher-Gil (#2) and Sidney Nolan (#3) complete the podium.
Henry Moore (#1), Amrita Sher-Gil (#2), Sidney Nolan (#3), Barbara Hepworth (#4) and Emily Carr (#5).
The highest-ranked artists born in Brazil are Tarsila do Amaral (#8), João Batista Vilanova Artigas (#12), Athos Bulcão de Almeida Lima (#23), Di Cavalcanti (#41) and Pedro Alexandrino Borges (#42).
The highest-ranked artists born in Canada are Emily Carr (#5), David Milne (#33), Yvonne McKague Housser (#38), Isabel McLaughlin (#39) and Pegi Nicol MacLeod (#40).
The earliest-born artist in this list is Pedro Alexandrino Borges (#42), born in 1856.
Brazil: 7 of the 46 artists in this list were born there, then Canada (5) and United States (5).
Montevideo: 2 of the artists in this list were born there.
The highest-ranked living artists in this list are Abdul Latiff Mohidin (#24) and Ibrahim El-Salahi (#31).
The museums holding the most key works of this list are Museu de Valores do Banco Central do Brasil (3), National Gallery of Canada (3) and The Robert McLaughlin Gallery (3).
This list includes 9 women: Amrita Sher-Gil (#2), Barbara Hepworth (#4), Emily Carr (#5), Tarsila do Amaral (#8), Gwen John (#9), Marieda di Stefano (#30), Yvonne McKague Housser (#38) and Isabel McLaughlin (#39).
Most artists in this list were born in the 1910s (12 of 46), between 1856 and 1941 overall.
Our catalogue holds 3,501 works by these artists.
Read
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![Heller Rainbow Dinnerware\n\n[front view] by Massimo Vignelli, Vignelli Associates](/media/artworks/images-thumb/cd/9c/cd9c3f1015cd05d21f20d796279c84cb.jpg)
![Knoll International\n\n[front view] by Massimo Vignelli, Vignelli Associates](/media/artworks/images-thumb/3f/ee/3feeb868249b96ea2d449739ed478876.jpg)
![Knoll Au Louvre\n\n[front cover] by Massimo Vignelli, Vignelli Associates](/media/artworks/images-thumb/2d/58/2d58532dc1c1248432ee69d88c0253d2.jpg)
![Nativity [Igrejinha de N. S. de Fátima 1958] by Athos Bulcão de Almeida Lima](/media/artworks/images-thumb/c1/1c/c11c36fe7c05230ed1517fa48fe3ce41.jpg)
![Uvas e pêssegos [Grapes and Peaches] by Pedro Alexandrino Borges](/media/artworks/images-thumb/d5/27/d527f98c5ddbf3938159b135c4f321d2.jpg)
![Baigneuses [Bathers] by Vicente Do Rêgo Monteiro](/media/artworks/images-thumb/54/26/5426c642108a8e75b6d63c31e241207f.jpg)
