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Abstract Art

Abstract art may be defined in many different ways. In the art world, it is common for a line to be drawn between abstract and nonrepresentational works. The term "non-objective" may also be used to describe some of these works.

Usually, abstract art will start from an objective or narrative concept. For instance, such a painting may deal with a particular person, thing, place, or story. While it will use an idea as a starting point, the exact subject matter may or may not be identifiable. This is generally the matter of significance when it comes to distinguishing between these three different words.

Abstract art ranges from how closely it resembles its original subject matter. Some people may also use the term to refer to works which have no starting concept other than to explore the elements of art (line, shape, form, etc.) Work which falls under that category is usually known as non-objective art. As a result, non-objective art may be viewed as a subsection of abstract art. Of course, it can also be viewed as something alternative to abstraction.

The term "non-representational" may be used interchangeably with "non-objective." It also may be viewed as non-literal works, in that sense it can also be used interchangeably with "abstract art." It is easy to see the confusion surrounding these terms. However, they all do generally deal, in varying degrees, with the avoidance of visual realism.

 

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