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In order to create your own abstract art, it is vitally important to understand what abstract art is. So here is my take; abstract art is a genre that diverges significantly from traditional representational art. Unlike realism, which aims to depict the visible world with accuracy, abstract art moves away from the need to represent physical reality directly. Instead, it employs shapes, colours, forms, and gestural marks to achieve its effect. Essentially, abstract art is more about expression than depiction; it’s focused on conveying emotions, ideas, or moods rather than providing a literal interpretation of the world around us.
The roots of abstract art can be traced back to the early 20th century, a period marked by significant cultural and technological shifts. Artists began to explore new ways of expressing their thoughts and feelings in response to these changes. Pioneers like Wassily Kandinsky, Kazimir Malevich, and Piet Mondrian started to break away from the constraints of representational art, experimenting with abstraction as a means of exploring the spiritual, the intellectual, and the emotional.
Kandinsky, often hailed as one of the founding fathers of abstract art, believed that art could evoke powerful emotional responses without relying on recognisable subjects. His works, characterised by vibrant colours and dynamic compositions, were intended to be visual manifestations of music, emotions, and spiritual experiences. This shift marked the beginning of an artistic revolution where the focus was no longer on what was seen, but on what could be felt and imagined.
To create your own abstract art, the extent to which abstract art can be non-representational varies, where it doesn’t depict anything from the real world or be more abstracted versions of real-world objects, where the subject is still somewhat recognisable but altered in form or colour. This flexibility allows for a broad range of styles and techniques, from the geometric precision of Mondrian’s works to the expressive, fluid strokes of Jackson Pollock.
For me, the appeal of abstract art lies in its boundless potential for creativity and interpretation. As both an artist and a viewer, abstract art represents a departure from the constraints of realism, offering a liberating experience where imagination can take the forefront. This freedom is what draws me, and many others, to both create and appreciate abstract works.
As an artist, abstract art provides an open canvas where the rules of perspective, proportion, and colour theory can be bent, broken, or completely disregarded. This freedom allows me to explore new ideas and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what art can be. Whether it’s through the use of bold, contrasting colours or the subtle interplay of light and shadow, abstract art enables me to express complex emotions and ideas in a way that isn’t possible with representational art.
One of the key aspects of abstract art is that it encourages experimentation and risk-taking. Without the need to replicate reality, I can play with form, composition, and colour in ways that are purely intuitive or conceptually driven. This can result in works that are deeply personal, reflecting my inner world, or it can lead to the exploration of universal themes such as chaos, order, harmony, and discord.
The process of creating abstract art can also be incredibly meditative and freeing. Many times, I find the experience of working on an abstract piece to be a journey, where the act of painting becomes a form of self-exploration and expression. The lack of a predefined outcome allows me to be fully present in the moment, responding to the work as it evolves. This sense of play leads to unexpected discoveries and moments of profound creativity.
As a viewer, abstract art offers an experience that is equally liberating. Unlike representational art, which often tells a specific story or depicts a particular scene, abstract art invites me to engage with the work on a personal level. The interpretation of an abstract piece is subjective, allowing me to bring my own experiences, emotions, and imagination into the process. This can make viewing abstract art a highly individualistic and introspective experience.
When you create your own abstract art Abstract it is important to remember that abstract art challenges us to look beyond the surface and engage with the underlying emotions, concepts, or ideas that the artist may be conveying. This can be both stimulating and rewarding, as it encourages a deeper level of engagement with the artwork. Instead of passively viewing a scene, I become an active participant in the artistic process, interpreting shapes, colours, and forms in a way that resonates with me personally.
Moreover, the ambiguity of abstract art can evoke a range of emotions and responses, from curiosity and wonder to contemplation and introspection. Because abstract art doesn’t provide clear answers, it invites me to explore my own interpretations and meanings, making the experience of viewing such art dynamic and ever-changing. Each encounter with an abstract piece can reveal something new, depending on my mood, thoughts, or perspective at that moment.
Stay tuned for ‘Step 2: Purpose of This Series and Encouragement to Get Started.
About Simone
Experience the magic of colour and nature with my stunning abstract art. Every piece is crafted to bring you joy and elevate your space, making it a focal point that sparks admiration and conversation. Let your home reflect your love for art and beauty."
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