Abstract Paintings - Why Choose to Buy an Abstract?

Abstract paintings...

There are many great styles of painting out there, arising from a rich art history which has seen movement after movement. The term abstract art is often used a blanket term to describe non-representational art - that is the absence of recognisable subjects. Abstract art was linked to the rise of modernism over the last century, coming into the mainstream with abstract expressionism in post-war art and still continuing to influence artists today.

What brought about the qualities we see in abstract art? The flattening of the artist's canvas surface is one major quality, as artists moved away from a convincing illusionism towards broader-minded thinking. With the invention of photography releasing the artist from painting as a way of recording reality, they began seeing the canvas surface as an object in its own right, with the canvas being a single, flat expansive surface. Paint 'acted' and affected the flat surface and began to form its own qualities according to how it was handled. The paint could exhibit 'personality', it had its own dimensions and opened up an array of different techniques we see in artwork through the last century. One of the main reasons artists began painting in an abstract way was the opportunities for greater creativity. It allowed for a greater range of expression and the development of ideas which were not reliant on representing reality any more.

Abstract paintings are intriguing and personal objects which offer you a glimpse into the artist's psyche, his or her values and ideas about the world. Often they are what the artist really wants to paint and there is usually a personal connection to the work. Debatably, there is no less skill used than in a representational painting because all the painting principles still apply to an abstract painting - it still needs to 'work', its forms, colours and composition have to be balanced skillfully etc.

What you often find with good abstract painting is an extra 'quality' an otherworldliness if you like, which transcends normal painting and brings something unique and special to you. Because there are only non-illusion painterly forms acting on the surface modified by colour, your eye is more aware of the whole, its surface tension, then parts which make up the whole. Abstract paintings are often visually powerful, making full use of qualities of colour, shape, texture and composition to convey their message to the eye.

If you choose an abstract or semi-abstract painting, it can convey your feelings and is a form of expression for you. It also is a wonderful catalyst to help you reflect on certain ideas, mull things over and can encourage a feeling of optimism. It can make your home feel like a modern sanctuary, a beautiful place that makes you proud, as well as identifying you with the talents, inspiration and creativity of the artist who made your work.

Source : Ezinearticles