Styles & Periods

• Artists
• Styles & Periods
• Associations
• Glossary
• Projects
• Purchase Guides

Metaphysical Painting

Metaphysical painting, while not officially ever a style, explored the possibilities of expressing irrationality and intuition in a manner later dominated by the Surrealists. Iconography, including figures in classical architectural settings, characterizes the work of many of the Metaphysical painters. Giorgio de Chirico developed and practiced the style, with followers including Carlo Carrà and Giorgio Morandi. Psychoanalysis, dreams and fantasy were coming into vogue, as artists sought out new means for expression. Metaphysical painters did not completely reject tradition, however. Strong interests in one-point perspective and the architecture of Italy’s arched walkways and squares dominate De Chirico’s work. The artist managed to forge a new sensibility in his work although these elements were unpredictable, either due to light sources, contradicting images, or unreal perspective. The Metaphysical painters imbued their canvases with emotions of shock, surprise and mystery, and were the forerunners of one of the defining styles of the 20th century, Surrealism.

Feeling inspired? Try out these fine products…

From $8.99 Premier Themed Colored Pencil Set by Prismacolor All the pencils you'll ever need in convenient themed sets.	At Least 39% Off Artist Oil Pencil by Cretacolor Shiny and water-resistant!	Up to 61% Off Series 680 One Stroke Polyester Filament Brushes by Winsor & Newton Perfect for acrylic lettering
From $4.29 300 Series Drawing Paper Pads by Strathmore A proven favorite	From $26.36 Painting with Acrylics by Crowood Press 11 classic painting techniques featured in this guide.	At Least 39% Off Artist Studio Sets by Cretacolor Comprehensive range. Superior quality. Convenient packaging.