Minimalism or minimal art is an artistic movement that emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s in America. This style is based on simplicity of expression, use of geometric shapes, pure colors and industrial materials. The aim of this style is to eliminate any philosophical, psychological, emotional or historical dimension from the artworks and instead, emphasize the pure quality of color, form, space and matter. Minimalists believe that art should show itself and does not need interpretation or explanation. They also welcome interaction with the audience and influence on their senses.

Minimalism in painting started with Kazimir Malevich, a Russian artist. He created his famous painting called Black Square in 1915, which consisted of only a black square on a white background. These works were indicative of the complete elimination of image and reference to zero degree of art. He presented another painting in 1918 called White on White, which consisted of a light white square on a dark white background. These works were indicative of getting rid of any relation to physicality and materiality.

After World War II, minimalism spread in America and many artists adopted this style. Some of them were interested in using simple and repetitive geometric shapes, such as Frank Stella, Ellsworth Kelly and Piet Mondrian. Some others were interested in using monochrome and pure colors, such as Robert Ryman, Yves Klein and Piero Manzoni. Some others were interested in using industrial materials and light, such as Donald Judd, Carl Andre, Dan Flavin and Richard Serra.

Minimalism in painting had a significant impact on the subsequent artistic movements. Some of these movements are: conceptual art, site-specific art, post-minimal art, postmodern art and neo-geo art. Minimalism also influenced other artistic disciplines such as music, literature, architecture and design.