When I look at paintings of Georgia O’Keeffe, Frida Kahlo or Jackson Pollock, for example, I can immediately recognise the artist from his/her style of painting. It is so unique to each artist.
Exploring the World of Abstract Painting: A Guide for Artists
As an artist painter, there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating art. One of the most exciting and liberating forms of painting is abstract painting. In this guide, we will explore the world of abstract painting and provide tips and techniques for artists looking to venture into this dynamic art form.
Abstract painting is a style of art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality. Instead, it focuses on the use of color, shape, texture, and form to create a composition that is unique and expressive. This type of painting allows artists to break free from the constraints of traditional representational art and explore their creativity in new ways.
Techniques for Creating Abstract Paintings
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There are many techniques that artists can use when creating abstract paintings. One popular technique is called “pouring.” This involves mixing acrylic paint with a pouring medium and then pouring the mixture onto a canvas. The colors blend together in unexpected ways, creating unique patterns and textures.
Another technique that artists use is called “splattering.” This involves dipping a brush or other tool into paint and then flicking it onto the canvas to create splatters or drips. This technique can add an element of randomness to the painting that can be both exciting and unpredictable.
Choosing Colors for Your Abstract Painting
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Color plays a crucial role in abstract painting as it sets the mood and tone for your work. When choosing colors for your abstract paintings, consider using complementary colors or colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel. This will create contrast in your work and make it more visually interesting.
It’s also important to consider the emotions that different colors evoke. For example, warm colors like reds and oranges can create feelings of energy or passion while cool colors like blues or greens can evoke feelings of calm or serenity.
The Basics of Abstract Painting
1. What is abstract art?
Abstract art is work that doesn’t represent something in the real world. It relies on the building blocks of color, line, shape, value, texture, and form. Read a more in-depth explanation with examples in What Is Abstract Art? Definition & Examples of Famous Abstract Paintings.
2. Are there four types of abstract painting?
Many art critics will classify abstract paintings into four types:
- geometric abstraction
- lyrical abstraction
- color field painting
- abstract expressionism
Each type uses abstraction differently. It could emphasize geometry, play with the lyrical or emotional value of a piece, display color fields to celebrate the energy of different colors, or use the infinite possibilities to express inner states.
Many abstract artists will dabble in more than one type, and some of their works might borrow from more than one approach to reach the final destination. So while these categories can be a helpful place to start, they are rarely the whole story.
3. Why do people make abstract art?
People make abstract art to create emotional and/or intellectual experiences for the viewer through images that don’t represent reality, to express feelings, ideas, and experiences, or to make a point or a statement.
Because it is unconnected to the physical world, abstract art is a thrilling way to create. The artist has so much freedom to explore anything that comes to their mind. They might also have things they want to express that simply can’t be said through ordinary representational methods.
It’s important to remember that this form of painting has a history tens of thousands of years old — and there’s evidence Neanderthals even made abstract art!
People have been making images that don’t relate to the visible world almost since we were making images at all. That speaks to some deep, primal desire in us to create abstract art.
4. What are three important features of abstract art?
Color Study, Squares with Concentric Circles by V. Kandinsky [Courtesy of Wikimedia]
Abstract art is often judged based on three characteristics. They should be:
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- non-representational
- spontaneous
- subjective
These characteristics allow for a wide range of interpretation and emotional response from the viewer. When a work is non-representational, it doesn’t try to present the viewer with an image of the real world. You could say that’s the heart of abstraction.
A spontaneous work isn’t necessarily unplanned or made on the spot. Instead, the term means that the piece contains surprise or mystery. In other words, the viewer discovers more about the painting the more time and attention they give it.
Finally, if a painting is highly subjective, it shows us a strong viewpoint. That helps viewers transcend their own perspectives.
Of course, there are many ways that artists break from these demands and still wind up with beautiful pieces. But, as with the types of abstract paintings we covered above, these metrics help us to start appreciating works we see. If you are struggling to understand abstract art , start asking how it uses its non-representation, spontaneity, and subjectivity.
5. Are there six elements of abstract art?
Many art critics boil down the essentials of visual art to these six elements:
These elements can be used in various combinations to create abstract art, though not every painting will emphasize all six prominently. There is also plenty of debate about these elements between artists and their audience. Like so much in art, reality is more complex than a simple set of rules. But these six elements are a great place to begin considering a work of abstract art or making one yourself.
Circles in a Circle by Kandinsky [Courtesy of Philadelphia Museum of Art]
6. Can anything be considered an abstract painting?
Any painting that isn’t trying to represent external reality could be considered abstract.
This might include a wide range of artistic works throughout human history, like:
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- certain cave paintings that are a series of non-representational marks
- many Aboriginal designs
- geometric patterns by Muslim artists
- design motifs used in Navajo art
- and much, much more!
Sometimes paintings depict real world subject matter but in such an “unrealistic” way that it becomes abstract. In Birsk (pictured below) Liubov Popova shows us a cityscape — but it’s been so removed from direct representation that the painting becomes enjoyable for the basic elements of it as an image. What are those elements? We’ll cover that in the next question.
Birsk by Liubov Popova [Courtesy of The Guggenheim Museum]
History of Abstract Art
7. What were the three forms of art that led to abstract painting?
Abstract painting arose from the influence of three art movements:
These styles emerged in the early 20th century and helped to define abstract art with their groundbreaking approaches to painting. With each movement, artists stepped further and further away from the strict adherence to realistically portraying the world that had dominated Western art for millennia.
Cubism moved away from traditional methods of perspective, presenting views of their subjects that did not reflect how we see the world.
Futurism captured the energy and speed in the industrializing world by breaking down realism into geometric building blocks. (Unfamiliar with this movement? Check out the painting below!)
Expressionism focused on changing the way the world was painted to tell the viewer something about an interior state.
Dynamism of a Cyclist (Dinamismo di un ciclista) by U. Boccioni [Courtesy of Wikipedia]
8. Who are the most famous abstract painters?
The most famous abstract artists include Jackson Pollock, Wassily Kandinsky, Mark Rothko, Piet Mondrian, and Kazimir Malevich.
But there are many, many more who went on to become famous throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. Also, there are a wide range of representational painters who learned and borrowed a great deal from their peers in abstract art, like Georgia O’Keeffe.
While they are often not as credited at the time, many women artists were pivotal in the creation of abstract art. Many historians now point to the work of Hilma af Klint as possibly the first truly abstract artist in the Western world.
9. What are the most famous abstract paintings of all time?
Of all the abstract paintings, perhaps the most famous are Broadway Boogie Woogie (1943) by Piet Mondrian and Black Square (1915) by Kazimir Malevich.
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- Violet, Black, Orange, Yellow on White and Red (1949) by Mark Rothko
- Number One (1950) by Jackson Pollock
- Convergence (1952) by Jackson Pollock
- Broadway Boogie Woogie (1942-43) by Piet Mondrian
- 5 (1948) by Mark Rothko
- Mountains and Sea (1952) by Helen Frankenthaler
- Composition VII (1913) by Wassily Kandinsky
- Who’s Afraid of Red, Yellow and Blue (series of four painted between 1966-1970) by Barnett Newman
Broadway Boogie Woogie by Piet Mondrian [Courtesy of Wikipedia]
10. What is the most expensive work of abstract art ever?
Willem de Kooning’s 1955 masterpiece Interchange is the most expensive work of abstract art ever sold. It went for $300 million in 2015.
That makes Interchange far and away the most expensive work of abstract art ever.
The sale was between the David Geffen Foundation and the buyer Kenneth C. Griffin. In the same transaction, Griffin bought Number 17A (1948) by Jackson Pollock for $200 million.
Interchange by W. de Kooning [Courtesy of The New York Times]
11. What is the definition of Modern Abstract Art?
Modern abstract art includes all non-representational art produced during the modern art period — the late 19th to the mid-20th century.
You might have noticed that in everyday language, most people use the word “modern” to mean new, but not in the art world! For things going on right now, we typically say “contemporary.”
As for contemporary abstract art, it is going through a major transition. A major part of this is the use of artificial intelligence to create abstract art. Want to learn more about this contemporary form? check out The Art of Artificial Intelligence: AI History, Pros & Cons of AI, Types of AI Generators and Copyright.
As we’ll see in the next question, modernity as an era left an indelible mark on the abstract.
12. What’s the difference between abstract art and contemporary art?
Abstract art includes all art that doesn’t try to represent things in the real world. Contemporary art refers to any art produced in the present.
So abstract art made by artists today is contemporary art, but not all contemporary art is abstract.
Contemporary art is more and more coming to be defined for the way artists are blurring the lines between different genres, producing hybrid works that make us consider critical issues in society and rethink the way we see art as a human endeavor.
13. Who are the most famous contemporary and modern abstract artists?
Girl with Balloon by Banksy [Courtesy of Dominic Robinson and Wikipedia]
Contemporary abstract artists admired by many people are: Jean-Michel Basquiat, Damien Hirst, Jeff Koons, Mark Bradford, Takashi Murakami, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Banksy.
The most famous modern abstract artists include Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Wassily Kandinsky.
These remain extremely popular abstract artists up to the present day. That’s because the modern era saw the rise of abstraction as a force in the art world, and so many of the masters who worked in the field at that time now enjoy the status of pioneers who did many things for the first time.
Buying and Investing in Abstract Paintings
14. Why is abstract art so popular?
Many people like abstract art for a variety of reasons, including:
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- It can be aesthetically pleasing.
- It can evoke strong emotions.
- It means freedom of expression.
- It is subjective and open to interpretation.
- It is adaptable to almost any décor.
Abstract art is sure to be one of the most revolutionary, fascinating, and wide-ranging fields in art.
15. Should you invest in abstract art?
Jackson Pollock [Courtesy of Sotheby’s]
If a work of abstract art is made by an artist with an established track record and strong reputation, it might be a great investment.
You should always remember that investing inherently contains risk. But when you buy a piece that you personally connect with, you get to take it home and enjoy it for years while it potentially goes up in value. That makes it a much more fun way to invest than most other assets.
16. How much money is abstract art worth?
Abstract art can be worth a significant amount of money if created by a renowned artist or is attractive enough to a buyer.
The value of abstract art is subjective and depends on various factors such as the artist, medium, size, and complexity of the artwork. It’s the same with all art — the price is heavily determined by how much a buyer is willing to pay.
17. Why do abstract paintings cost so much?
Abstract paintings can be expensive due to the time, skill, and materials required to create them.
Additionally, the reputation and demand for the artist can also influence the price.
Many painters train for years to hone their abilities and become effective communicators through form, line, color, composition, and rhythm alone. That dedication pays off when they are able to realize high prices for their paintings.
But, of course, not all abstract paintings are expensive. And as you’ll see in the next several questions, there are ways to find more affordable work.
18. Where can I buy affordable abstract art?
If you are looking for affordable abstract art, consider shopping at:
These are all great places to find abstract art that won’t break the bank. They offer a variety of options that cater to different tastes and budgets, and they get you headed in the right direction.
You can also try finding young artists in your area who are just starting out for original abstract art. Their prices will be lower, and when you buy from them, you’ll be directly supporting a budding career!
19. What is a print of an abstract painting?
A print is a reproduction of an original painting, created using a variety of techniques. These are typically much more affordable than original paintings.
Prints are a great way to get started collecting artwork because they are less expensive and easier to take care of than original works. And the quality of prints improves all the time.
For more information on the difference between prints and original paintings, see Print vs. Original Painting.
20. Are prints less expensive than original paintings?
Yes, prints are almost always less expensive than paintings. Artists are able to make many copies, so they can make each print available at lower price points.
Paintings, on the other hand, are one-of-a-kind pieces, which greatly increases their price. Once an artist sells an original painting, it’s gone forever.
21. How can I tell if a painting is an original or a print?
Figuring out if a work of art is an original or a print can take careful observation. Look for brushstrokes or texture on the canvas, indicating an original.
Prints typically appear flat and lack the texture of an original painting. Sometimes a little bit of texture will be added on after printing, but it will be clear that all of the image was not painted by hand.
You can also look for a signature or edition number, as prints are often numbered and signed by the artist.
22. Where do I buy large abstract wall art?
You can buy large abstract wall art from artist websites, direct commissions from artists, local galleries, art fairs, and online marketplaces.
There’s never been so many options to buy large abstract paintings. If you really want to expand your horizons and discover artists to buy from, consider browsing places like Instagram where you can connect directly with creators you love.
Something to remember about buying large art of any kind is that you need to safely transport it to wherever you want to hang it. If you are looking to get an enormous painting into your living room (see below), you’ll need to make sure it can actually fit through the door. You might also need to invest in special transportation.
23. Is there a best size for abstract painting?
The best size for abstract paintings always depends on personal preference and where you want to display it.
A large painting has the ability to fill up a room and start conversations, while smaller paintings give people a chance to discover them and have a more private moment with the work. What you are looking to add to a given room will determine what size matches those needs.
Also, consider the space where the painting will be hung and choose a size that complements the room’s dimensions and décor. You don’t want a painting way too big or too small for the space.
Huge Large Abstract Art Painting Discovery
Tips for identifying quality abstract art?
Now we have covered some of the key factors to think about when evaluating quality abstract art, let’s look into some specific tips to help you more in identifying quality art pieces.
Look for balance and harmony
As I mentioned earlier, quality abstract art will have a sense of harmony and balance between all its elements. Look for pieces that draw your immediate attention.
It could be the harmony of the colours, shapes or other elements in the artwork that caught your attention. A good quality abstract art would project complete harmony and balance in the overall elements of the artwork.
Even if you are not familiar with art techniques, you would feel it. You would feel that the entire artwork looks and feels harmonious and balanced.
Look closer at each of the elements and their individual placement in the artwork. Then take a step back and look at the artwork as a whole and see how the various elements work together to create a sense of harmony and balance.
By doing so, you can gain a deeper appreciation of the artist’s skill and the emotional impact of the art.
Consider the artist’s reputation
Find out who is the artist behind the piece you are considering. Talk to the artist directly, if possible. Find out about their level of experience, skill and creativity.
A well-known artist with a good reputation is likely to create high quality artwork that is considered valuable and sought-after by collectors and art enthusiasts.
But it doesn’t always have to be a well-known artist
There are many other talented and skilful lesser-known artists who may produce equally high quality artwork but have not gained the same level of exposure or recognition.
Discovering and appreciating the work of lesser-known artists can be an exciting and rewarding experience for art enthusiasts and collectors. These artists may offer a fresh perspective or unique style that is not as commonly seen in the work of more well-known artists.
I always think a piece of artwork is a piece of the artist himself/herself.
It’s worth noting that the artist’s reputation can provide valuable insight and context into the quality of their work, but it shouldn’t be the sole determining factor in your evaluation of quality abstract art.
Take your time
In the composition section above, I mentioned the importance of making that personal connection with a piece of art. To allow yourself to make a connection and to allow the artwork to pull into it, you must allow plenty of time to look at it.
I can’t put more emphasis on giving yourself plenty of time to engage your feelings with the artwork. Yes, you would be looking at the artwork with your eyes, but you have to let your feelings ‘see’ it.
Do you know that a study was carried out to check how long museum visitors’ spend looking at a piece of art? The answer is less than 30 seconds. Some say that the average is 17 seconds.
That really surprised me a lot. There is no way anybody can enjoy looking at any painting in 17 seconds.
Whenever I visit an art gallery or a museum, I would start from one end and spend as much time as I feel comfortable looking at each individual painting. And it’s definitely a lot more than 17 or 30 seconds. That’s not all. This is only the first round.
When I have looked at all the paintings, I would go for a second round and start again. This is the time when I could be spending more or less time looking at each painting again. This could take a few hours, depending on how many pieces of art there are.
It does not stop there. When I leave the art gallery or museum, I would be thinking about those pieces of artwork that attracted me the most. What was it about that painting? Why did it attract my attention? What did I like about it? And so on.
There would be several questions in my mind about those pieces of art that stayed with me long after seeing them. And I might go back again for another viewing.
Emotional connection to a static object could take some time. You need to be willing and prepared to allow yourself the time and engagement with the artwork that it may deserve.
Taking your time viewing a piece of art and the importance of composition are probably the two main takeaways in this blog.
Taking your time to appreciate art doesn’t guarantee that you will always have a connection to it. Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t.
Trust your gut
I left the best for last. I truly believe art is a language of feelings. Whether you are a professional artist, an experienced art buyer or just somebody who is simply interested in art, we all look at art because it could move us.
It is that sensation of feeling comfortable, feeling good about looking at art. A quality piece of art is always trying to connect with us, it tries to tell us something, to make us feel something, to resonate with us in one way or another.
If you feel everything I mentioned earlier in this blog is a little overwhelming with art technicality, trust your own instincts and feelings. You can’t go wrong with that. Because, at the end of the day, you are buying that piece of art for yourself, not for anybody else.
Examples of quality abstract art
All the images above are of my own original abstract paintings. You can see more of my paintings in all the blog posts I have written on the Blog page.
I have also two other pages, one is dedicated to my abstract acrylic paintings and the other page is for oil paintings.
Have a look around and you can decide for yourself whether any of my paintings would fit in with quality abstract art.
The following images, most definitely, are quality abstract art. They are unquestionably works of excellent abstract art created by some of the most famous abstract artists in the world.
- Joan Mitchel (1925-1992): Field for Two I, 1973.
- Georgia O’Keeffe (1887-1986): Black Hollyhock Blue Larkspur, 1930.
- Willem de Kooning (1904-1997): Gotham New, 1955.
This is only a small sample of high quality abstract art. There are many more great abstract arts created by several great artists.
And here is a good video about some of Jackson Pollock’s paintings: 62 Stunning Paintings by Jackson Pollock.
Final words about quality abstract art
There is no doubt that there is a lot to think about when evaluating quality abstract art. Some of it may seem a little overwhelming. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
Talk to the artist and ask whatever question to help you learn more about the quality of the piece of artwork. Also, looking at several paintings can help a lot.
If you have any questions or comments, please let me know in the comments section below or just drop me an email. It’s that simple.
