Understanding and Enjoying Abstract Art
I don't know how many times I have heard the following phrases, "I don't understand what this is?" or "I could do THAT!" This guide is written to help art buyers(even those that prefer representational art) understand and enjoy Abstract Art.
Representational art is something that portrays an image. The image is realistic and the artist has paid a meticulous attention to detail. This is also referred to as Realism. Successful abstract art is designed to bypass literal perception and instead provoke a powerful and sometimes unconcious emotion. If you study the older works of many abstract artists, you will find that they are highly skilled. When my own journey began, I devoured books on developing skills/technical accuracy, anatomy, and techniques. Later I went on to train at the Maryland Institute of Art. However, later I began painting exclusively in an abstract style.
In general, there are two types of abstract paintings. "Pure" Abstract where the painting reflects shapes, colors, lines and overall composition, but there is no recognizable object. As a buyer, you must rely on how this painting makes you feel and what you personally see in the painting. When I have a gallery show, I like to ask prospective buyers what they "see". With "pure" abstract art everyone's opinion is valid. I will then tell them what inspired me to paint the piece and how I "see" it.
Here are some samples of "pure" abstract art.
What emotions did you experience when you looked at them? What do you think these paintings are about?
The second type of abstract is the process of taking an image and abstracting it. This is sometimes referred to as abstract impressionism. In other words, the artist is taking real images and deconstructing them.
Here are some samples of abstract impressionism.
In conclusion, I issue a challenge to you to visit abstract art websites. Take the time to study the composition, colors, shape, lines and any recognizable objects. Then ask yourself, "What am I feeling? What do I see?". Just for fun, you might even want to read what the artist "saw" or was inspired by. Hope you found my first guide useful.
Feel free to send me questions and comments. Also, you may reprint this article as long as you include my contact information. Don't change text or pictures. Let me know if you wish to reprint this so that I can refer people to your
Miller Modern Art
Miller Modern Art
Pamela E Miller
EMAIL: pamela@millermodernart.com
BLOG: pmillerabstractart.blogspot.com
WEBSITE: millermodernart.com
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