Browse Art Brut (Raw Art)

Art Brut, also known as "Raw Art," is a term coined by French artist Jean Dubuffet in 1945 to describe art created outside the boundaries of official culture. Dubuffet focused particularly on art by those without formal training, including psychiatric patients, prisoners, and children, believing that their work was more authentic and primal, uncorrupted by cultural norms. Art Brut encompasses a diverse range of mediums and styles, characterized by its raw, visceral, and often unconventional nature. This art form often eschews traditional aesthetics, favoring instead an unfiltered expression of emotion and perspective.

In the broader art history, Art Brut challenged established notions of what could be considered art and who could be called an artist. It played a significant role in questioning the exclusivity of the art world and influenced various movements, including Outsider Art, Neo-expressionism, and Folk Art.

In contemporary art, Art Brut continues to inspire artists and is celebrated for its authenticity and directness. It remains significant for its challenge to artistic norms and its exploration of the human experience from unorthodox perspectives.

Art collectors may be drawn to Art Brut for its raw emotional power and its striking, often unconventional beauty. Collecting Art Brut can be seen as an acknowledgment of the diversity of human creativity, extending beyond the formal art world. It offers a unique window into the human psyche, unmediated by artistic training or cultural influence. Additionally, its historical significance and role in expanding the boundaries of art make it a meaningful addition to a collector’s portfolio, especially for those interested in the full spectrum of human expression in art.