Abstract art is one of the most popular yet least understood forms of art in the world today. As a result, you usually have to really know what you’re doing if you want to make sure you get quality abstract art. This piece will cover everything from what this art style is to how to appreciate it.
Abstract Art in a Nutshell
Simply put, abstract art is a type of art that focuses less on visual appeal. Instead, it turns to prime elements like context and concept to tell its story. This is one of the reasons why this form of art uses features like vivid shapes, lines, and gestures to captivate its audience.
Abstract Art Paintings – The Origin Story
Abstract paintings have been around for quite some time, and one of the first persons to capture the essence of this art style on canvas was Hilma af Klint. Of Swedish descent, this artist didn’t pursue fame, meaning that much of her work didn’t go public until two decades after her death. For this reason, many people credit Wassily Kandinsky for being the father of this form of art.
Kandinsky made abstract paintings impossible to ignore with the release of the art piece Komposition V in 1911. Since that time, the likes of Piet Mondrian, Kazimir Malevich, Jackson Pollock, and Agnes Martin have gone on to expose the world to the various facets of abstract art.
Best Tips for Understanding and Appreciating Abstract Paintings
As you no doubt see, abstract art can be incredibly nuanced. Because of this, it takes a little more effort to digest and absorb, especially when compared to other art forms. Some tips you can follow to use to appreciate abstract art include:
Have an Open Mind
It’s important to remember that, due to its very nature, most abstract art pieces will likely not conform to any preconceived notions. So, make sure to keep an open mind when viewing art pieces. They tend to make a lot more sense that way.
Give Your Emotions Free Rein
Abstract art is a deeply emotional art form. It engages your senses on an innate level, so allowing your emotions to guide you as you explore this type of art can expose you to a lot of unique sensations. As a side note, this is one reason why abstract paintings are considered great conversation openers.
Avoid Looking for Familiar Figures or Objects
This can be incredibly challenging to do, considering that the human mind is almost always subconsciously searching for familiar patterns. Viewing abstract art without searching for familiar objects frees your mind to limitless possibilities, eventually letting you make sense of what’s before you.
Getting the Best of Abstract Paintings
Abstract art is visual magic, and much of its appeal stems from the fact that you have to look beneath the surface to unravel the secrets of each painting. So, don’t feel down if it doesn’t come to you at once. With constant exposure, you’ll be able to distill the essence of this art form, eventually.
See some stunning modern abstract art paintings here.
