written by art historian & curator Mihaela Manolache
Naïve art is a controversial artistic genre situated at the border between folk art, outsider art, or provincial art. Officially defined as visual creation belonging to individuals lacking formal education in fine arts, naïve art reflects an aesthetics decorative and simple, similar to children’s drawings. Folk art borrows from the naïve visuals but it’s mainly inspired by practical objects and popular lifestyles. Outsider art also has some common aesthetics with folk and naïve art, but its subjects have little to do with the mainstream world. Naïve art is easy to recognise through its flat and non-realistic perspective and modified anatomical features.
Although it may differ in style and technique from many academic art forms, naïve art possesses its own unique aesthetic and creative expression. Naïve art reflects the imagination and personal experiences of the artists who create it. It often captures a sense of innocence, authenticity, and spontaneity that can resonate with viewers. Naïve art has gained recognition and appreciation within the art world, and many museums and galleries exhibit and collect works naïve of artists. While this matter is disputed according to conventional criteria, this art genre is widely recognised and valued as a legitimate form of artistic expression.
