Which artistic movement emphasized extreme simplification of form and color?

Minimalism is the artistic movement that emphasized extreme simplification of form and color. This movement emerged in the late 1950s and became prominent in the 1960s and 1970s. Minimalist artists sought to reduce their works to their essential elements, stripping away any unnecessary details. They often utilized geometric shapes, limited color palettes, and repeated patterns to achieve a sense of clarity and simplicity.

This approach was a reaction against the complexity of abstract expressionism, reflecting a desire to create art that was more direct and devoid of emotional excess. By focusing on basic forms and colors, Minimalism invites viewers to engage with the artwork in a way that highlights its materiality and presence, often encouraging contemplation of the space surrounding the piece.

The other movements mentioned represent different artistic concerns. Realism focused on depicting subjects truthfully without embellishment, Impressionism was characterized by capturing the effects of light and color through loose brushwork, and Expressionism prioritized emotional experience over realistic representation. Each of these styles contrasts with the simplicity and reduction inherent in Minimalism.