Abstraction: meaning and purpose
The influence of abstraction on painting: the history of the development of the movement
Abstraction appeared in painting as a response to the fatigue of artists from traditional canons and strict rules of academic art. At the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, most painters worked within the framework of classical realism, where the key elements were:
However, at the turn of the century, many artists began searching for new ways of expression, striving to go beyond the familiar and create something that stemmed from their inner perception and emotions, not just copies of the real world.
The reason for this was the massive changes the world was experiencing at the beginning of the 20th century. Scientific discoveries, rapid technological and industrial development, urban growth, population migration, as well as social and political upheavals – all of this changed people’s lives. Artists, sensitive to changes in society, began to see the world and their artistic possibilities in a new way.
These changes sparked the feeling that old forms and methods no longer reflected the increasingly complex and multifaceted reality. Traditional methods of depicting the world seemed outdated and insufficient to convey new ideas and emotions. Additionally, the philosophical and cultural movements of the time, such as modernism, began to question the very concept of reality and how it is perceived.
Moreover, the influence of wars that ravaged Europe and the general feeling of uncertainty also played a role. We are talking about World War I, which began in 1914 and became one of the largest conflicts in world history. This war had a profound impact on art, including painting. The large-scale destruction, human losses, and general crisis caused by the war led to deep changes in society and culture.
World War I changed people’s view of life and the world, causing a feeling of instability and the futility of old orders. Artists who lived through this period often sought to express new, anxious feelings that could not be conveyed through traditional methods and styles.
Artists began to move away from directly depicting reality, experimenting with form, color, and composition. They painted not what their eyes saw, but what their souls felt: fears, dreams, and emotions. This is how abstractionism was born – a movement that placed artistic expression, rather than the subject, at its core.
The first steps towards abstraction were made by post-impressionist and expressionist artists. Gradually, in the early 20th century, abstraction began to take more defined forms. One of the pioneers of this movement was Wassily Kandinsky, who believed that art should be free from objectivity and express pure spirituality. His works became the first examples of pure abstraction.
At the same time, other movements developed, such as cubism, where artists like Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque began deconstructing objects into geometric shapes, moving away from realism. Suprematism, created by Kazimir Malevich, completely rejected the depiction of real objects, replacing them with abstract geometric forms. Another significant phase was the emergence of abstract expressionism in the mid-20th century, which focused on conveying emotions and the artist’s inner state through spontaneous, energetic brushstrokes and forms, as seen in the works of Jackson Pollock.
Abstraction not only opened new horizons in painting but also contributed to the emergence of other styles and movements. Minimalism, constructivism, and op art all owe their existence, to some extent, to abstractionism. The influence of abstraction is still felt today. Many contemporary artists continue to use abstract forms to convey their ideas, creating works that invite the viewer to free interpretation and perception.
Abstraction teaches us to look at the world differently, to see deeper, and to perceive art not only as an image but as a space for reflection and emotions.
10 abstract painting techniques
Abstract painting is a field for experimentation where artists can freely express their emotions and ideas through color, form, and composition. Unlike traditional art, which aims to depict reality, abstraction focuses on pure expressiveness. Here are a few techniques used by abstract artists.
Color as a Means of Expression
One of the main tools of abstract artists is color. Artists choose a palette not to depict reality but to evoke certain emotions in the viewer. Bright, saturated colors convey joy, energy, or tension, while soft, muted hues suggest calmness or melancholy.
For example, Wassily Kandinsky saw color as a way to express spiritual experiences, and his paintings resemble musical compositions (including their titles), where each color is a note creating a specific mood.
Playing with Form
Abstract artists often experiment with form, moving away from realistic depictions. Instead of people, landscapes, and objects, their canvases feature geometric shapes, free lines, and unusual combinations of forms. These elements help convey ideas and feelings without being tied to specific objects.
For example, Kazimir Malevich in his suprematist works used simple geometric shapes such as squares and circles to create powerful visual images unique to each viewer.
Rejection of Perspective
In traditional art, perspective helps create the illusion of depth and volume. However, abstractionists often reject this principle, preferring flat compositions where each element has equal importance. This creates a sense that the viewer is looking at the painting not through a “window” into another world, but sees a pure composition where only the relationships between colors and shapes matter.
Texture and Brushstroke
Many abstract artists pay special attention to the texture of their works. They experiment with the thickness of the paint, brushstrokes, and various materials to give the painting a unique “surface.”
Jackson Pollock, for example, is famous for his “drip painting” technique, where paint is literally splattered onto the canvas, creating chaotic yet surprisingly expressive textures.
Improvisation
Abstract painting often relies on intuition and spontaneity. Artists do not always plan their works in advance – they allow the paints and shapes to “guide” them, creating compositions in the process. This approach helps convey pure, unfiltered emotions and creates unique works where each brushstroke is important and carries specific meaning.
Collage and Mixed Techniques
Some abstract artists combine painting with other materials, creating collages or mixed techniques. They add elements from paper, fabric, metal, and other materials into their works, creating complex layered compositions. This allows artists to experiment with texture and create an even richer visual environment.
For example, Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque used collages in their Cubist works, such as Picasso’s “Guitar.” Later examples can be found in the works of Robert Rauschenberg, who actively experimented with collage and mixed techniques, as seen in his famous “Combines” series.
Monochromatic Palette
In contrast to bright and varied colors, some artists use a limited palette or even work in a single color. Monochromatic works emphasize form, texture, and composition, allowing the viewer to focus on the pure structure of the artwork. Such works often appear minimalist but are simultaneously deep and conceptual.
An example is Yves Klein’s monochromatic canvases. His famous “IKB 191” is done in his signature color, International Klein Blue.
Action Painting
This technique involves the process of creating the painting becoming part of its content. Jackson Pollock is also known for “action painting,” where the artist applies paint to the canvas while moving around it. In this case, not only the final result is important but also the process itself, which becomes a performance.
Some contemporary artists record these performances on video, upload them to the internet, and gain many followers. Performances where they actively splatter paint on the canvas, resulting in a unique painting with a slightly distorted interpretation of reality, are very popular with people.
Gradients and Smooth Transitions
Some abstract artists use gradient techniques, where one color gradually transitions into another. This creates a sense of depth, movement, or change in mood. Smooth transitions between colors can be used to create calming or, conversely, dynamic compositions.
For example, Mark Rothko’s works often demonstrate the use of smooth transitions between colors, as seen in his famous “Multiforms” series (1947–1949), where soft gradients create a deep emotional response in the viewer.
Repetition and Rhythm
Many abstract artists use repetition of elements to create rhythmic compositions. Repeating shapes, lines, or patterns create a sense of harmony and order, or conversely, increasing tension, depending on the context and execution.
An example of this technique can be found in Piet Mondrian’s works, where repeating vertical and horizontal lines create rhythm, as seen in his “Compositions” series. Another example is the work of Bridget Riley, a British artist known for her op-art pieces, where repeating patterns create optical illusions and dynamic compositions, such as in her painting “Current Movement.”
These techniques offer artists vast opportunities for self-expression and the creation of unique works, each capable of affecting the viewer in different ways. Abstraction is a continuous experiment and exploration of visual possibilities, making it so interesting and multifaceted.
Why do people choose abstract painting? The impact of abstraction on human psychology
Abstract painting attracts many people due to its unique ability to affect emotions and consciousness.
Firstly, it is not tied to specific subjects and images, which gives the viewer complete freedom in perception. Abstraction allows everyone to see something personal, find their own meaning, and connect with the work. This makes it a deeply personal experience. When we say that abstract painting becomes a “deeply personal experience,” it means that the perception of the painting heavily depends on individual sensations, emotions, thoughts, personal experience, mood, and inner state. For example, the same work may evoke completely different reactions and feelings in different people. For one viewer, it may be a source of inspiration and tranquility, while for another, it may be a reason for contemplation. Thus, viewing abstract painting becomes a personal experience.
Secondly, one of the main advantages of abstraction is its ability to evoke emotions through color, form, and texture. Abstract paintings can stir feelings of joy, calmness, energy, or even anxiety, depending on how they are executed.
For example, bright and vivid colors stimulate brain activity, increase serotonin levels, and create a feeling of happiness. Soft and pastel tones calm, help relax, and reduce stress levels.
Thirdly, the lack of clear figures and subjects allows abstraction to affect our subconscious. The brain automatically starts looking for familiar images and patterns, which activates the imagination and helps “complete” the painting in its own way. This stimulates creative thinking and helps the viewer go beyond conventional perception.
Abstraction is also valued for its potential for repeated perception. Each time someone looks at such a painting, they may see something new, depending on their mood and inner state. This makes abstract painting alive, changing, and never monotonous.
One interesting example of an abstract painting that reveals new facets with each viewing is Agnes Martin’s “Untitled No. 10” (1977). At first glance, it is a minimalist composition consisting of thin, almost invisible lines and stripes applied to a light background. However, upon closer inspection, viewers may notice how the perception of this work changes depending on the lighting, angle, or their own mood. Some see recurring rhythms and structures in these lines, reminiscent of musical or poetic rhythms. Others interpret them as meditative spaces that allow for calm and contemplation. Martin’s work seems to invite contemplation and the search for personal meaning, making it unique and reinterpreted each time.
Additionally, abstraction creates space for self-exploration. When a person looks at an abstract piece, they may reflect on what specifically attracts them to the painting, what emotions it evokes, and why. This opens the way to better understanding oneself and one’s emotions.
Physiologically, abstract art can stimulate different areas of the brain. The visual cortex processes colors and shapes, while the limbic system handles emotional responses. This complex process makes the perception of abstraction a rich and layered experience that can affect mood and overall psycho-emotional state.
Abstract painting is not just an interior decoration. It is a deep source of inspiration, emotions, and personal discoveries, allowing each person to find their unique perception of art.
Abstractions: Diversity and Richness of Forms
Abstraction in painting opens up a world of infinite diversity of forms and ideas. This art movement allows artists to move away from realistic depiction and delve into a realm of pure emotions and ideas. In this art form, what is depicted is less important than how it is depicted. Each direction in abstraction offers a unique approach to creating a visual experience where traditional forms and lines intertwine with deep personal and emotional experiences. In this article, we will explore four key directions of abstraction and see how they reflect the multifaceted nature of this style.
The first type of abstraction is geometric abstraction.
It relies on the use of strict and precise forms, such as circles, squares, rectangles, and lines. In these works, the focus is on symmetry, proportions, and simplifying forms to their basic geometric elements. Geometric abstraction aims for purity and logic, excluding chaos and randomness. Works in this style often appear orderly and structured, like mathematical equations expressed through painting.
An example is the work of Kazimir Malevich, especially his “Suprematist Composition,” where geometric shapes are used to create a new, non-figurative reality. Another prominent figure in geometric abstraction is Piet Mondrian, who, with his “compositions” of straight lines and primary colors, aimed to achieve absolute harmony and balance.
The second type of abstraction is lyrical abstraction.
This direction is characterized by freedom of expression, emotionality, and intuition. Unlike geometric abstraction, here the forms are more flexible, fluid, and less structured. The lines are smooth and curved, while the colors are rich and expressive. Lyrical abstraction aims to convey the artist’s inner experiences, feelings, and emotions, creating an atmosphere through the interplay of color and form.
An example of lyrical abstraction is the work of Wassily Kandinsky. His works are filled with dynamic lines and colors that seem almost musical, creating a sense of movement and emotional depth.
The third direction is abstract expressionism.
This movement emerged in the mid-20th century and is known for its spontaneity, energy, and expressiveness. Abstract expressionist artists aim to convey the immediacy of emotions through dynamic brushstrokes, paint drips, spots, and random forms. Abstract expressionism often uses bright, contrasting colors and does not adhere to any compositional rules, allowing artists to express intense inner states. Works in this style are created not so much through a deliberate process as through intuitive, impulsive actions.
Jackson Pollock, one of the most famous representatives of this movement, created his paintings using a technique that left the canvas with the sensation of a living, bubbling stream of energy and emotions.
The fourth type of abstraction is organic abstraction.
It is inspired by natural forms, but these forms are simplified and stylized. Organic abstraction may resemble natural elements such as leaves, water drops, or stones, but they are depicted in a simplified, sometimes almost fantastical manner. This type emphasizes fluidity, smoothness of lines, and softness of forms. It seeks harmony and resonance with nature, avoiding sharp angles and strict geometric forms.
Joan Miró’s works are a perfect example of organic abstraction – his paintings are filled with soft, flowing lines and forms reminiscent of natural motifs, but at the same time they are fantastical and whimsical, creating a unique visual language.
Each of these styles reveals new facets of abstract art and demonstrates how diversely personal and universal ideas can be expressed.
Which interior would suit abstract paintings? Rules and recommendations
Abstract paintings are a powerful tool that can give a unique character and mood to a room. They can harmoniously fit into any style if you approach the selection and placement wisely. Let’s consider the main rules and give recommendations that will help integrate abstraction into your interior.
Abstract art is a versatile decor element that fits any space. The key is to consider the style, color scheme, size, and placement of the painting to ensure it integrates harmoniously into your interior and highlights its features.
Famous abstract artists and their abstract oil paintings
Oil paintings in the style of abstraction represent a unique combination of technique and creativity, where each brushstroke, color accent, or shape carries deep meaning. This style of art developed thanks to a number of outstanding artists who made unique contributions to its evolution.
Wassily Kandinsky
A great artist and the founder of abstract art in painting. He is known for his works where he aimed to create “pure” art that conveys inner emotions and spiritual ideas. He believed that color and form could exist independently, without being tied to specific objects.
Kazimir Malevich
The founder of Suprematism. He elevated abstraction to a new level by abandoning the depiction of real objects in favor of simple geometric shapes and color planes.
Piet Mondrian
A Dutch artist known for his work in the style of Neoplasticism. He used straight lines and primary colors to create harmonious and balanced compositions. In his works, colors and lines are simplified to the extreme, creating a perfect combination of form and color.
Jackson Pollock
An American artist known for his “drip painting” technique. He created paintings by applying paint to the canvas through spontaneous movements, giving his works dynamism and energy. Pollock believed that this process allowed the artist to express emotions directly, including subconscious ones.
Mark Rothko
A renowned abstract artist who worked with large color fields, aiming to evoke deep emotional responses from viewers. His works immerse viewers in a meditative state where color becomes the primary carrier of meaning.
Ukraine also has outstanding masters of abstraction. For example, Ivan Marchuk, one of the most famous contemporary Ukrainian artists, uses abstraction techniques to create unique works filled with philosophy and emotion. He developed his own style in abstraction called “Marchukism.” His early series “Voice of My Soul” is a vivid example of how abstract elements are applied to depict human figures: face, hair, clothing, skin. In other paintings, fine details are so abstracted that even silhouettes are not discernible.
These works of Ivan Marchuk reveal the depth and multilayered nature of the human soul through the lens of abstraction, making his art a significant contribution to contemporary Ukrainian art.
Yuri Zlotnikov also made a significant contribution to the development of abstraction in Ukraine. His works are characterized by the use of symbols and signs that create a unique visual language.
The series “Signal Systems” – one of his most significant works in the style of abstraction. This series, created in the 1960s, consists of a set of paintings where the artist explores the interaction of form, color, and lines as elements of a visual language. In “Signal Systems,” Zlotnikov uses simple geometric shapes – circles, squares, rectangles – as well as lines that he combines and interweaves to create complex compositions. The main focus is on color and its ability to convey certain states and emotions. In each painting, lines and forms seem to “signal” something, conveying messages hidden from direct perception. This idea of a visual code or language becomes the central theme of the series.
The artist experiments with color contrast and form balance, creating a sense of tension or, conversely, harmony. The paintings from the “Signal Systems” series appear as complex diagrams or maps that the viewer must “decode.” Through such visual explorations, Zlotnikov shows how abstract elements can carry deep meanings that require thoughtful perception and interpretation.
This series of works became a landmark for Yuri Zlotnikov, establishing his reputation as one of the leading abstract artists who created a unique and multilayered visual language.
To enjoy abstract art from different periods, one can visit museums, galleries, or personal exhibitions of artists. For example, works by Ukrainian masters can be seen at the National Art Museum of Ukraine in Kyiv or in private galleries such as Shcherbenko Art Centre.
Oil paintings in the abstract style are not only expressive works of art but also powerful tools for creating a unique atmosphere in any interior. Choose abstract works that resonate with your heart, and they will surely become an important part of your living space.
Question and answer
Abstract paintings are works of art in which the artist abandons the traditional depiction of real objects and focuses on conveying emotions, moods, or concepts through form, color, line, and texture. Such paintings do not contain familiar objects such as people, landscapes or buildings. In abstract paintings, artists use various elements to convey their ideas and emotions.
Colors can be rich and bright, or soft and muted. They convey a mood, evoke associations, or even influence the viewer’s subconscious. For example, red can be associated with energy and passion, while blue can be associated with peace and tranquility.
Abstract shapes can be geometric, like squares and circles, or organic – smooth and asymmetrical. Also, the forms can be simple or complex, they create a rhythm and composition that seem to guide the viewer’s eye through the picture.
Lines – straight or curved, thin or thick, sharp or soft. Lines in abstraction are often used to create movement, structure, or even tension in a painting.
Texture is created both visually and physically – through the application of paint or the use of various materials. It adds depth and interest to the surface of the painting, forcing the viewer to “feel” it with their eyes.
Composition is another element of abstraction. This is the way in which the elements of a painting are arranged in relation to each other. The composition determines how the viewer perceives the picture as a whole: it can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, static or dynamic.
These elements work together to create an abstract work that does not require a clear subject or form, but is still able to evoke strong emotional responses or thoughts in the viewer.
Abstraction in painting is a direction of art where the image does not strive to accurately reproduce reality. Abstract artists avoid direct depictions of objects, instead focusing on colors, shapes and lines to express their ideas and emotions. Abstraction can be either completely divorced from reality or a slightly deformed interpretation of it.
Thus, Kazimir Malevich’s “Black Square” can serve as an example of an abstraction completely divorced from reality. There are no recognizable objects or scenes in this painting, just a simple black square on a white background. This is a completely abstract work where the artist sought to express the idea of pure form and color without any connection to reality. However, for each person the black square means something different.
An example of a slightly deformed interpretation of reality could be Wassily Kandinsky’s painting “Improvisation 31”. At first glance, the work appears abstract, with bright colors and dynamic lines. However, upon closer inspection, one may notice hints of real objects, such as ships or waves, although they are depicted in a stylized, abstract manner. Here the artist does not completely break away from reality, but greatly transforms it in order to convey emotional experience and internal conflict.
These examples show that abstraction can exist at different levels, from complete isolation from the real world to subtle processing of real forms and images.
Abstraction in fine art is an approach in which artists create works that do not depict specific objects or scenes from real life. It can evoke a wide range of emotions and convey different meanings, depending on how the artist uses shapes, colors and textures.
Such bright, vibrant colors and dynamic lines evoke feelings of joy, optimism, or excitement. For example, Wassily Kandinsky’s works are often full of energy and create a sense of movement and celebration. Soft, pastel tones and smooth, rounded shapes evoke a sense of tranquility, relaxation, or meditation. An example can be Mark Rothko’s works, whose large color fields often provoke a feeling of contemplation and inner peace. Contrasting colors, sharp angles, and chaotic lines create a sense of tension, conflict, and anxiety. Jackson Pollock’s paintings, created using the “drip painting” technique, often evoke a feeling of internal chaos and drama. Dark shades, abstract forms, and complex compositions provoke a sense of mystery and intrigue, as if the viewer is invited to decipher a hidden meaning. For example, Joan Miró’s works with their surreal yet abstract images are often interpreted as mysterious and multilayered. Some abstract works, especially in the style of abstract expressionism, can reflect deep philosophical reflections on life, death, and human existence. An example is Barnett Newman’s work, whose paintings explore ideas of being and emptiness. Additionally, abstraction is often associated with music, where forms and colors “sound” visually, creating an analogy with rhythm, melody, and harmony. Wassily Kandinsky, for example, actively sought connections between painting and music, creating works that can be “heard” with the eyes. Furthermore, abstraction serves as a way of visually expressing the artist’s emotional states, such as anger, joy, longing, or fear. For example, Franz Kline’s paintings with large, energetic brushstrokes are often interpreted as expressions of power and intensity of emotions. Other abstract works aim to express spiritual and metaphysical ideas through symbols and color combinations. For instance, Piet Mondrian’s paintings with their strict geometry and primary colors are often seen as expressions of the search for harmony and spiritual balance.
Abstraction is interesting in that its meanings and emotions are often not definitively defined, and each viewer can perceive them in their own way.
Abstraction in art is diverse and includes several main directions:
Abstract art in painting is characterized by the absence of recognizable objects and the desire to express internal states or abstract ideas. In such paintings, it is not the specific shapes that are important, but the interaction of color, texture and composition. Artists create tension or harmony using sharp color contrasts, unexpected combinations of geometric and organic shapes, and dynamic, sometimes chaotic lines. These techniques allow the creation of multi-layered compositions that can evoke a variety of emotions in the viewer – from feelings of anxiety to feelings of deep contemplation, inviting personal interpretation and emotional response.
