What is Abstract Art

As an abstract artist, I’ve always been fascinated by the power of abstract art and non-representational art to stir emotions and challenge our perceptions.

So, what is abstract art? Well, it’s a captivating form of artistic expression that’s been shaking up the art world since the early 20th century.

Let’s have a look and explore this exciting genre together.

What is the Meaning of Abstract Art?

So, what is abstract art really all about?

At its core, it’s a form of visual expression that doesn’t try to depict reality accurately. Instead, it uses shapes, colours, forms and gestural marks to create an impact.

Unlike traditional art that aims to portray recognisable objects or scenes, abstract art focuses on the relationships between elements and the emotional or conceptual punch of the composition.

In my experience, abstract art falls into two main sections. First, there’s partial abstraction, where you might spot familiar objects or scenes, but they’ve been simplified, distorted, or painted in unexpected or realistic shapes and colours.

Then there’s fully abstract or non-representational art (or non-objective), which doesn’t draw any inspiration from visual reality at all.

Now, I’ll let you in on a little secret – there’s still some debate about the exact definition of abstraction and non-representational art.

There’s a difference between abstract art and non-representational art. Abstract art removes some elements from a subject, creating an altered depiction. But you can still see parts of the object.

Non-representational art, on the other hand, doesn’t include any familiar or recognisable objects from reality. I prefer to think of it as “freedom from representation.”

But, most people (including some artists) use the terms “abstract” and “non-representational” interchangeably.

I do the same just for simplicity. But in reality, I consider my art as non-representational rather than abstract art, if we want to be more precise.

Why Abstract Art Can Be Hard to Understand

Now, I’ll be honest with you – abstract art can sometimes feel like a tough nut to crack.

If you’ve ever stood in front of an abstract painting thinking, “What am I supposed to be seeing here?”, trust me, you’re not alone.

One of the biggest hurdles in understanding abstract art is that it doesn’t give us the familiar visual cues we’re used to.

There’s no obvious subject matter to latch onto, no clear story being told. Instead, we’re faced with colours, shapes and lines that don’t immediately translate into something we recognise from our everyday lives.

I often hear people say, “Abstract art makes no sense”, and you know what? That’s okay.

Abstract art isn’t about making logical sense in the way we usually think about it. It’s about evoking emotions, exploring concepts and challenging our perceptions.

If you’re curious about why abstract art might seem nonsensical at first glance, check out my blog post “Abstract Art Makes No Sense“. It might just change your perspective.

Another thing that can make abstract art tricky to understand is all the myths and misconceptions floating around about it.

Some people think abstract art is just random splashes of paint or that it doesn’t require any skill to create. Others believe there’s always a hidden meaning that they’re just not smart enough to figure out.

Let me tell you, these ideas couldn’t be further from the truth. I bust some of these common myths in my post “Abstract Art Myths“, so give it a read if you want to clear up any misconceptions.

The key to understanding abstract art is to approach it with an open mind. Don’t worry about figuring out what it’s “supposed” to be.

Instead, pay attention to how it makes you feel. What emotions does it stir up? What thoughts does it provoke?

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to interpret abstract art – your personal response is just as valid as anyone else’s.

So next time you’re faced with an abstract artwork that seems puzzling, take a deep breath and give it a chance. You might be surprised by what you discover when you let go of the need to “understand” and simply experience the art instead.

The History and Evolution of Abstract Art

I’ve done a fair bit of reading on art history, I can tell you that Western art historians typically trace the roots of abstract art to the late 19th century. But it was really in the early 20th century that abstraction took off.

Now, when we talk about the “first” abstract artist, it’s important to note that this is from a Western art history perspective. The story of who kicked off this revolutionary art movement is pretty fascinating.

If you’re curious about who gets the credit for being the pioneer of abstract art in the Western world, check out my blog post “Who was the First Abstract Artist”. It’s a real eye-opener.

Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Could “Cave Art” be considered abstract art? I mean, if we’re going by the definition of abstract art, it’s an interesting possibility to consider, right?

What about Aboriginal Art or some of the Chinese or Japanese or other ancient art that might fit the definition of abstract art? Could they be considered abstract art too?

These cultures have long traditions of abstract and non-representational art that predate Western abstract movements by centuries, if not millennia.

Their use of symbolism, geometric patterns and stylised forms could certainly align with our modern understanding of what abstract art is.

We’ll leave that subject for another discussion, though.

It’s a fascinating rabbit hole to dive into and it really makes you think about how we define and categorise art across different cultures and time periods.

The bottom line is, the history of abstract art is complex and multifaceted, with roots that may go much deeper and wider than we often acknowledge in Western art narratives.

It’s a reminder that what we consider “abstract” might be influenced by our own cultural perspectives and biases.

What is the Main Idea of Abstract Art

Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter.

What is abstract art really trying to do?

Well, in my opinion, it’s all about challenging our perceptions and expanding the boundaries of what we consider art. Abstract artists question the very purpose and meaning of art and its relationship to the world around us.

One of the coolest things about abstract art is how it invites viewers to engage with it on a personal level. Instead of showing easily recognisable scenes, abstract art challenges you to respond emotionally and interpret it based on your own experiences.

As the brilliant artist Bridget Riley said, “My work is completed by the viewer.“

But the main idea of abstract art goes even deeper than that. It’s about the expressive language of colours, shapes and creative expression. In my experience, creating or viewing abstract art – or even just engaging with these simple elements – can infuse joy and contentment into our lives.

In fact, I’m so passionate about this aspect of abstract art that I dive much deeper into it in my monthly newsletter.

Every month, I share simple tips that could bring little joys and brighten our busy lives. And here’s the best part – my newsletters are for anyone, not just abstract artists.

If you’re interested in learning how the principles of abstract art can add a spark to your daily life, just complete the form below this blog and check your email to confirm your subscription. It’s that simple.

Key Characteristics of Abstract Art

So, what makes abstract art, well, abstract?

Here are some key features:

1. It distorts or removes depictions of specific objects or scenes from reality.
2. There’s a big emphasis on colour and shape.
3. It often aims to convey feelings, ideas or concepts rather than literal representations.
4. Viewers are encouraged to form their own understanding and emotional response.
5. Artists use various techniques, from wild brushstrokes to precise geometric shapes.

Types of Abstract Art

Abstract art isn’t just one thing – it’s a whole world of different approaches and styles. Let me break down some of the main types (or styles) you might come across:

1. Geometric Abstraction: This style is all about precision and order. Artists use geometric shapes like circles, squares and triangles to create compositions. Think of Piet Mondrian’s iconic grid paintings with primary colours.
2. Lyrical Abstraction: Now, this is where things get a bit more free-flowing. Lyrical abstraction emphasises spontaneous, gestural brushwork and vibrant colours. It’s like the artist is dancing with the paintbrush. Joan Mitchell’s work is a great example of this style.
3. Colour Field Painting: Imagine standing in front of a huge canvas filled with expanses of colour. That’s colour field painting for you. Artists like Mark Rothko used large areas of flat colour to create a meditative or emotional effect. It’s like being enveloped in pure colour.
4. Abstract Expressionism: This movement really shook things up in the mid-20th century. It’s all about spontaneous, intuitive creation. Jackson Pollock’s famous drip paintings fall under this category. It’s like the artist is channelling raw emotion onto the canvas.
5. Cubism: While not fully abstract, Cubism was a huge stepping stone towards abstraction. Artists like Pablo Picasso broke down objects into geometric shapes, showing multiple viewpoints simultaneously. It’s like looking at the world through a kaleidoscope.
6. Minimalism: This style strips art down to its most fundamental features. Think simple geometric shapes, often repeated. Artists like Frank Stella embraced the “less is more” philosophy. It’s abstract art at its most… well, minimal.
7. Op Art: Short for Optical Art, this style plays with optical illusions and movement. Artists like Bridget Riley create works that seem to vibrate or move when you look at them. It’s abstract art that messes with your eyes in the coolest way possible.
8. Biomorphic Abstraction: This style takes inspiration from naturally occurring patterns or shapes found in nature. Think of the organic, flowing forms in Joan Miró’s paintings. It’s like abstract art went for a walk in the forest and came back inspired.

Remember, these categories aren’t rigid – many artists mix and match elements from different styles. And new types of abstract art are always emerging as artists continue to push boundaries and experiment.

In my own work, I find myself drawn to Abstract Expressionism. I’ve included some of my paintings throughout my website on different pages and blogs. Have a look and see what you think. I’d be interested to hear your thoughts.

Want to dive deeper into any of these styles? Let me know in the comments, and we could explore them further in future posts.

The Impact and Significance of Abstract Art

Let me tell you, abstract art has had a massive influence on the art world and beyond. It’s not just about pretty pictures – it’s a whole new way of thinking about art and creativity.

First off, abstract art completely shook up our ideas about what art could be. Before abstraction came along, most people thought art was all about accurately representing the world around us. But abstract artists said, “Hey, why do we need to stick to that?”

They showed us that art could be about pure emotion, ideas or even the process of creation itself. It’s like they gave artists permission to break all the rules.

This freedom had a huge ripple effect. It influenced everything from painting and sculpture to architecture and design.

Just look at how many sleek, abstract-inspired buildings you see in modern cities. Abstract art opened the doors for movements like Minimalism and Conceptual art. It’s like it gave birth to a whole family of innovative art styles.

But the impact of abstract art goes way beyond the art world. It changed how we think about creativity and problem-solving.

Abstract artists showed us that there’s more than one way to look at things. They encouraged us to think outside the box and approach problems from new angles. In a way, you could say that abstract art helped pave the way for innovation in fields like technology and science.

Abstract art also had a big impact on our emotional lives. It showed us that art doesn’t always have to tell a clear story or show a recognisable scene to move us.

A few shapes and colours on a canvas can stir up deep feelings and memories. It’s like abstract art speaks directly to our subconscious.

Now, I’ll be honest – not everyone was (or is) on board with abstract art. It’s been controversial since day one.

Some people love it, some people hate it, but you can’t deny that it gets people talking and thinking about art. And isn’t that what great art is supposed to do?

In my experience, creating abstract art has been incredibly liberating. It’s allowed me to express ideas and emotions that I couldn’t put into words or realistic images.

And I’ve seen how it can touch people in surprising ways. I’ve had viewers tell me they see their life story in one of my paintings or that a piece made them feel an emotion they couldn’t quite name.

That’s the magic of abstract art – it leaves room for personal interpretation and connection.

Abstract art challenges us to look deeper, to engage with art on a more intuitive level. It pushes the boundaries of what art can be and do.

And in a world that often feels too literal and logical, abstract art reminds us of the power of imagination and emotion.

So next time you’re looking at an abstract painting, remember – you’re not just seeing a bunch of random shapes and colours. You’re looking at a piece of art history, a new way of thinking and an invitation to see the world differently. Pretty cool, right?

What do you think? Has abstract art had an impact on how you see the world? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Famous Abstract Artists

I could go on for days about famous abstract artists, but here are just a few names you might want to check out:

• Hilma af Klint
• Wassily Kandinsky
• Piet Mondrian
• Georgia O’Keeffe
• Joan Mitchell
• Jackson Pollock
• Helen Frankenthaler.

Each of these artists brought something unique to the table and helped shape the world of abstract art as we know it today.

But why stop there? If you’re curious about who I consider to be the cream of the crop in abstract art, check out my blog post on “The 10 Best Abstract Artists of All Time”.

It’s a great starting point if you want to dive deeper into the world of abstract art and get to know some of its most influential figures.

These artists didn’t just create beautiful works – they revolutionised the way we think about art. They pushed boundaries, challenged conventions and opened up new possibilities for artistic expression.

Whether you’re a fan of bold, gestural strokes or prefer more geometric, precise compositions, there’s an abstract artist out there who’ll speak to you.

Remember, though, this is just scratching the surface. The world of abstract art is vast and diverse, with new artists constantly emerging and pushing the boundaries even further.

Who knows? Maybe the next great abstract artist is out there right now, mixing colours and getting ready to blow our minds.

Got a favourite abstract artist who didn’t make my top 10 list? I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Art is subjective, after all, and sometimes the less-known artists can be the most inspiring.

Creating and Appreciating Abstract Art

Now, if you’re interested in exploring abstract art yourself, whether as a creator or an admirer, here are a few tips from my personal experience:

1. Focus on emotion: Let the colours, shapes and textures evoke feelings rather than searching for recognisable forms.
2. Embrace ambiguity: Remember, there’s no “correct” interpretation of an abstract artwork – your personal response is totally valid.
3. Experiment with materials: If you’re creating abstract art, don’t be afraid to try unconventional tools or techniques. Some of my best works came from happy accidents.
4. Study the masters: Familiarise yourself with renowned abstract artists to understand the diversity within the genre.

Now, if you’re itching to try your hand at creating abstract art, I’ve got you covered. Check out my blog post on “How to Make an Abstract Painting” for some step-by-step guidance. Trust me, it’s not as intimidating as it might seem at first.

On the other hand, if you’re more interested in developing your appreciation for abstract art, I’ve written a detailed guide just for you.

My post “Appreciating Abstract Art: A Guide to Unlocking the Mystery” will help you navigate the sometimes puzzling world of abstract art and find deeper meaning in these non-representational works.

Remember, whether you’re creating or appreciating abstract art, the key is to keep an open mind and let your intuition guide you. There’s no right or wrong way to engage with abstract art – it’s all about your personal journey and what speaks to you.

Have you tried creating abstract art yourself? Or maybe you’ve had a memorable experience with an abstract artwork?

I’d love to hear about it in the comments below. Let’s share our abstract art adventures.

Conclusion: What is Abstract Art

So, what is abstract art?

Abstract art is like a journey of exploration, both for the artist and the viewer. It’s a way of seeing the world differently, of expressing emotions and ideas that go beyond what we can put into words.

Abstract art continues to evolve and inspire, challenging our perceptions and inviting us to see the world in new ways.

I could talk forever about abstract art but I’d love to hear your thoughts on it.

Have you created any abstract pieces yourself?

What’s your favourite type (or should I say style) of abstract art?

Drop a comment below and let’s chat.

And if you have any questions about abstract art that I didn’t cover here, feel free to ask. Art is all about sharing and learning from each other, so don’t be shy.

Other related articles

What Do People See in Abstract Painting

No Great Artist Ever Sees Things as They Really Are

The Enduring Legacy of Women Abstract Artists

Beyond the Boys Club: Female Pioneers of Abstract Expressionism

Women in Abstract Art: A History of Female Artists and Feminist Perspectives