The Beauty and Challenge of Abstract Art
When most people think of art, they picture a landscape, a portrait, or a still life—something familiar and recognizable. But when it comes to abstract art, reactions can be mixed. Some see it as a chaotic jumble of colors and shapes, while others dismiss it as an easy way out, far removed from the “real” skills of drawing and painting.
Yet, the truth is far more complex.
Abstract art is anything but easy. In fact, it demands a profound understanding of both the subject and oneself. It’s more than just throwing random ideas on a page; it’s about digging deep into the essence of a subject and expressing it in a way that goes beyond mere appearance.
As Aristotle remarked “The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance.”
The Misconception of Ease
One of the biggest misconceptions about abstract art is that it’s somehow less legitimate or easier than representational art. But let me tell you—nearly all abstract artists create representational work. They choose abstraction not as a shortcut, but as a deliberate, challenging path that pushes the boundaries of creativity and expression.
The process of abstraction often requires an artist to strip away the surface details and focus on the core, the essence, the inward significance of their subject.
Creating abstract art means learning to translate complex ideas, emotions, or philosophies into visual form. Some artists aim to convey a particular mood or philosophy through their work, using form, color, or composition to express something deeper than what can be seen with the eyes alone.
Each piece of abstract art is a conversation between the artist and the viewer, where meaning isn’t handed to you on a silver platter—you’re invited to find your own interpretation, your own connection.
Schools of Abstraction
Abstract art isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. There are many different schools of abstract art, each with its own relationship to the physical world.
For instance, Wassily Kandinsky, often considered the father of abstract art, created deeply spiritual and expressive works, aiming to convey the essence of music through color and form. His works, like Composition VII, are complex and energetic, demonstrating how abstraction can communicate emotions and ideas without directly referencing the physical world.
On the other hand, artists like Piet Mondrian took a more structured approach to abstraction. Mondrian’s work, such as Composition with Red, Blue, and Yellow, reduced the world to its basic elements—lines and primary colors—reflecting his belief in universal harmony. His style, De Stijl, is less about depicting the real world and more about finding a new order within it.
Then there’s Mark Rothko, whose color field paintings, like Untitled (Black on Maroon), evoke deep emotional responses through large, soft-edged blocks of color. Rothko’s works are more about creating a mood or atmosphere than representing anything tangible, inviting viewers to experience the emotional impact of color.
As an artist, I’ve spent years exploring these different avenues of abstraction. Though I love drawing, painting, and sculpting representational work, my true love is the expression and creativity that come from abstraction. It’s the work I’m most known for, andwhere I find the greatest freedom.
A Personal Journey into Abstraction
One of my most fulfilling projects was an entire series of abstract collages inspired by the stained glass in English cathedrals during a residency in Saltaire. The colors, the light, the way each fragment of glass told a story—all of it inspired me to create pieces that weren’t literal representations of the windows but captured their spirit, their inward significance.
It was a challenging project, but it reminded me why I’m drawn to abstraction in the first place: it allows me to express what can’t always be put into words or traditional images.
The Value of Appreciation
I understand that learning to appreciate abstraction can be difficult. It’s not always easy to see beyond the surface and find the meaning in a swirl of colors or an unusual composition. But I promise you, it’s worth the effort.
Abstraction challenges you to think, to feel, and to connect with art on a deeper level. It invites you to bring your own experiences, emotions, and interpretations into the mix.
So, next time you encounter an abstract piece, take a moment to look beyond the outward appearance. Consider what the artist might be trying to express, and how it makes you feel.
Abstraction isn’t just about what you see; it’s about what you experience. And that, I believe, is the true power of art.
See you in the studio!
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