Modernist masters, in order
The most famous Modernist artist is Henry Moore (1898–1986), known for Reclining Figure and Pointed Torso. Next come Amrita Sher-Gil, Sidney Nolan, Barbara Hepworth and Emily Carr. This ranking of the 46 most famous Modernist artists runs from Pedro Alexandrino Borges (born 1856) to Abdul Latiff Mohidin (born 1941), across 17 countries.
How this list is ranked. Artists whose works our catalogue files under Modernist, in the order of our fame ranking of artists. Artists without a Wikidata identifier born after 1955 are left out until verified. The Wikipedia figure next to each name is the number of our 32 languages in which Wikipedia has an article on the artist.
The essentials
Ranked, with their masterpieces
1of 46
British Born in Castleford Modernism, Abstract sculpture Wikipedia in 29/32 languages
Moore’s artistic education began at Castleford Secondary School, where his art teacher recognized and nurtured his talent. A pivotal moment came during a visit to Mexico in 1925, where he encountered pre-Columbian sculptures – particularly those of the Aztec civilization.
2of 46
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
His landscapes, often stark and desolate, capture the vastness and harsh beauty of the Australian outback. Despite achieving international recognition, Nolan remained deeply connected to Australia, viewing his art as a means of understanding and interpreting its unique character. His bold depictions of Ned Kelly have become iconic images, instantly recognizable as symbols of Australia's rebellious spirit and complex history.
4of 46
English Born in Wakefield Modernism, Surrealism, Abstraction Wikipedia in 22/32 languages
This method demands an immediate, physical engagement with the substance of the work. 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. The Hepworth Wakefield in Wakefield, United Kingdom, bears her name and maintains a significant presence in the region of her birth.
Where to see Her physical presence in the art world remains anchored by The Hepworth Wakefield in Wakefield, United Kingdom.
5of 46
Canadian Born in Victoria Modernism, Post-Impressionism
Initially influenced by Post-Impressionism, Carr gradually moved away from conventional techniques, developing a style characterized by bold colors, dynamic brushstrokes, and an almost visceral energy. A pivotal moment in her development came through her encounters with the First Nations communities along the British Columbia coast. Beyond her artistic achievements, Carr was also a gifted writer, chronicling her experiences and observations in the acclaimed autobiography Klee Wyck, which won the Governor General’s Literary Award for non-fiction in 1941.
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Austrian-American Born in Vienna Twelve-tone technique; Expressionism Wikipedia in 31/32 languages
7of 46
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.
8of 46
Brazilian Born in Cachoeira do Sul Brazilian Modernism
It was within the walls of the Académie Julian and later the Académie Moderne that she encountered the avant-garde currents reshaping the art world – Cubism, Futurism, and Expressionism – influences that would profoundly shape her artistic trajectory. Her influence extended beyond the realm of painting, inspiring generations of Brazilian artists and shaping the nation's cultural landscape.
9of 46
Welsh Born in Haverfordwest Modernist Wikipedia in 17/32 languages
However, it was also fraught with emotional complexities, as Rodin eventually sought distance, leaving John navigating both artistic independence and personal heartache. Around 1913, a profound spiritual awakening led John to convert to Catholicism. A memorial exhibition held in London in 1946 sparked renewed interest, and subsequent scholarship has revealed the depth and originality of her vision.
10of 46
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. He pursued formal training at both the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in Philadelphia and the Art Students League of New York, absorbing the teachings of influential figures like Thomas Pollock Anshutz and William Merritt Chase. A pivotal moment in Marin’s artistic development arrived with his journey to Europe in 1905.
11of 46
Born in Philadelphia Wikipedia in 14/32 languages
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. His work is known for its bold, brash, and colorful nature. Robert Henri: Provided foundational training and encouraged direct observation of life.
12of 46
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. João Batista Vilanova Artigas, born in Curitiba, Brazil, in 1915, stands as a monumental figure in the evolution of Brazilian architecture.
13of 46
American Born in Lewiston American Modernism Wikipedia in 16/32 languages
Notable Works: The Ice Hole, Autumn Color, Portrait of a German Officer, Mt.
14of 46
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. He was deeply involved in Uruguayan public life, serving as a member of Parliament, directing the Escuela Nacional de Artes y Oficios, and contributing significantly to intellectual discourse through his writings on law, education, aesthetics, and even utopian ideals. He is remembered as one of the first Latin American painters to successfully forge a distinctly regional style, prioritizing feeling and essence over strict realism.
15of 46
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.
16of 46
American Born in Canandaigua Abstract Modernism Wikipedia in 12/32 languages
Immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of the European art capital, he encountered the burgeoning modernist movements that would irrevocably shape his aesthetic vision. He befriended Alfred Henry Maurer, another American expatriate artist experimenting with radical new styles, and was profoundly influenced by the Fauvist works of Henri Matisse. 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.
17of 46
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. Distinguishing Style: Black-and-white photography, dramatic use of light and shadow, 6x6 square format, documentarian realism combined with aesthetic beauty. Marcel Gautherot, born in Chantilly, France, in 1910, was more than a photographer; he was a chronicler of transformation, a visual poet who dedicated over half a century to documenting the evolving soul of Brazil.
18of 46
Born in Sassari Wikipedia in 10/32 languages
A pivotal shift occurred after WWI, developing a style characterized by massive, immobile forms and geometric shapes. Key influences included Giacomo Balla (early training), Giorgio de Chirico & Carlo Carrà (metaphysical painting’s impact on form), and elements of Neoclassicism and Primitivist Classicism. Briefly experimented with Futurism around 1914, exhibiting at the Galleria Sprovieri in Rome.
19of 46
British-American Modernist watercolor
He employed layering techniques to build up color gradually, creating subtle gradations and atmospheric effects. His use of light and shadow was masterful, lending depth and realism to his subjects. While largely unknown during his lifetime, Theodore Hancock’s work has gained increasing recognition in recent years.
20of 46
Uruguayan Born in Montevideo Modernism, Vibrationism Wikipedia in 8/32 languages
A turning point arrived in 1913 with a journey to Europe, a voyage that irrevocably altered his artistic trajectory. Immersing himself in the dynamic energy of Italy’s Futurist movement and briefly experiencing the radical deconstruction of Cubism in Paris, Barradas began to formulate an aesthetic vision that was both innovative and deeply personal. Settling in Spain, primarily in Barcelona and Madrid, Barradas quickly became a central figure within avant-garde circles.
21of 46
Born in Baghdad
Sufism, with its mystical and philosophical underpinnings, profoundly influenced his artistic vision. His early style was initially figurative but gradually transitioned towards an emphasis on Arabic calligraphy as a central artistic element. 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.
22of 46
Born in New Malden
The work of David Smith was particularly influential. Shift in Style: Inspired by his experiences in America, Caro abandoned figurative sculpture and began creating abstract assemblages using welded steel and found industrial objects. Early Influences: Initially influenced by Henry Moore, with whom he worked as a studio assistant from 1951-1953.
23of 46
Brazilian Born in Rio de Janeiro Abstract, Geometric
Bulcão’s artistic language is instantly recognizable: an embrace of abstract and geometric forms rendered in a palette of often strikingly bright colors. Notable works like “ Untitled ” (a testament to his innovative metalwork) and the evocative “Sabará” demonstrate this unique aesthetic sensibility. He passed away on July 31st, 2008, succumbing to complications from Parkinson’s disease, but his artistic spirit continues to resonate throughout Brazil and beyond.
24of 46
French Born in Johor Bahru ['Divisionism', 'Cubism', 'Orphism', 'Abstract art']
26of 46
Portuguese Born in Porto Abstractionism, Expressionism
A pivotal moment arrived with a scholarship to the Institute for Advanced Culture in 1947, enabling him to study in Paris – a crucible of modern art. 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.
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).
29of 46
Portuguese Born in São Tomé Modernism, Futurism
His father, António Lobo de Almada Negreiros, was of Portuguese descent, while his mother, Elvira Freire Sobral, carried Santomean roots, creating a rich tapestry of familial traditions that would permeate his creative endeavors throughout his prolific life. Almada Negreiros’ artistic pursuits extended far beyond the realm of painting alone. Stylistic Innovation: The successful synthesis of Art Nouveau, Futurism, and Surrealism.
31of 46
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. During the 1950s, he began to absorb the transformative energies of various international movements, finding echoes of Pablo Picasso and Edgar Degas within his own developing language. Throughout his storied career, El-Salahi has achieved several milestones that define his enduring impact: Pioneering African Modernism: He played a decisive role in establishing a modern visual identity for Sudan and the wider continent.
32of 46
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.
33of 46
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.
34of 46
American Born in Lisbon Harlem Renaissance Wikipedia in 9/32 languages
35of 46
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.
36of 46
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.
37of 46
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. He quickly began publishing cartoons and articles, establishing himself as a rising talent. Born on March 23, 1913, in Istanbul, Turkey, Abidin Dino came from an art-loving family.
38of 46
Canadian Born in Toronto Modernism Wikipedia in 4/32 languages
Educational Impact: Her long-standing commitment to teaching at the Ontario College of Art, nurturing subsequent generations of Canadian talent. 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. A transformative sabbatical in Paris from 1921 to 1922 allowed her to immerse herself in the legendary Académie de la Grande Chaumière and Académie Colarossi.
39of 46
Canadian Born in Oshawa Modernism Wikipedia in 4/32 languages
Her association with the Group of Seven, through Lismer's guidance, proved instrumental in shaping her initial approach to landscape painting. 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.
40of 46
Spanish Born in Listowel Surrealism Wikipedia in 2/32 languages
41of 46
Brazilian Born in Rio de Janeiro Brazilian Modernism Wikipedia in 6/32 languages
Upon returning to Rio de Janeiro in 1925, Di Cavalcanti embarked on a deliberate quest to synthesize European modernism with distinctly Brazilian themes. 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.
42of 46
Brazilian Born in São Paulo Latin American Modernism Wikipedia in 1/32 languages
43of 46
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
45of 46
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.
The paintings behind the names
Through time
In 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 |
All of them, in order
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 · 1906–1992Your questions, answered
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 Canada are Emily Carr (#5), David Milne (#33), Yvonne McKague Housser (#38), Isabel McLaughlin (#39) and Pegi Nicol MacLeod (#40).
Brazil: 7 of the 46 artists in this list were born there, then Canada (5) and United States (5).
“This led her to experiment with increasingly abstract compositions, employing thick impasto techniques to create a sense of movement and texture.” — from our biography of Emily Carr (#5).
The museums holding the most key works of this list are The Phillips Collection (3), National Museum of Contemporary Art - Museu do Chiado (3) and National Gallery of Canada (3).
Most artists in this list were born in the 1910s (12 of 46), between 1856 and 1941 overall.
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 earliest-born artist in this list is Pedro Alexandrino Borges (#42), born in 1856.
Montevideo: 2 of the artists in this list were born there.
The women of this list (9): 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).
Our catalogue holds 3,501 works by these artists.
Keep reading
Other movements
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Famous High Medieval artistsMadonna in Maest (Ognissanti Madonna) · Giotto
Famous Late Medieval artistsThe Annunciation and Two Saints · Simone Martini
Famous Renaissance artistsThe Creation of Adam · Michelangelo
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Famous 19th Century artistsWater Lilies (or Nympheas) · Claude Monet
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Famous Contemporary artistsWind Sculpture III (one in a series of nine) · Yinka ShonibareFamous paintings
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Famous Romanticism paintingsLiberty Leading the People · Eugène Delacroix
Famous Realism paintingsNighthawks · Edward HopperFamous Post-Impressionism paintingsStarry Night · Vincent van Gogh
Famous Expressionism paintingsThe Scream · Edvard Munch
Famous Surrealism paintingsThe Persistence of Memory · Salvador DalíFamous Renaissance paintingsMona Lisa · Leonardo da Vinci
Famous Neoclassicism paintingsNapoleon at the St. Bernard Pass · Jacques-Louis David
Famous Symbolism paintingsThe Birth of Venus · William-Adolphe Bouguereau
Famous Mannerism paintingsThe Burial of the Count of Orgaz · El Greco
Famous Rococo paintingsThe Swing · Jean-Honoré FragonardMore rankings
![Heller Rainbow Dinnerware\n\n[front view] by Massimo Vignelli, Vignelli Associates](/media/artworks/images-thumb/cd/9c/cd9c3f1015cd05d21f20d796279c84cb.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)
