4 Ways To Think About Abstract Original Paintings

Filling your life with art can help you feel more creative and satisfied. Abstract art is unique in the way it conveys emotion and meaning through color, light, and shapes. You don't need to be a professional curator in order to enjoy abstract art. It's available for anyone to experience. Thinking about these four things can give you a lens with which to examine abstract art, which in turn can guide your purchasing decisions.

1. Colors

Colors are an important aspect of any painting, but they become especially crucial in abstract work. Without representational objects to convey meaning, abstract art must rely on the particular arrangement of colors and shapes. Certain colors are harmonious when placed next to each other, while others seem to vibrate with tension. The best way to figure out what kinds of abstract art you like is to look at many paintings and observe your taste. Pay special attention to the colors to figure out if you like warm colors, cool colors, or a combination of the two.

2. Edges

Every painting contains edges at the places where shapes meet other shapes. Some edges are soft, while others are hard. The number and quality of edges in an abstract painting can make it look floaty and ephemeral or energetic and aggressive. Training yourself to notice edges can help you determine what an artist was trying to convey with their painting.

3. Size

The size of a painting is one of the first things that most people will notice. Size may not be apparent when looking at reproductions of abstract paintings on a screen, but it can greatly affect the way an abstract painting fills your space. Think about the size of your room when purchasing abstract paintings. Large paintings are at risk of overwhelming small spaces, but they can also make delightful conversation pieces. Visiting an art gallery and seeing paintings in person is a great way to get an idea of the way the size of the painting changes the effect it has on a room.

4. Texture

Texture is especially important in abstract paintings because it's yet another dimension that can lend emotion and meaning to pieces. Experiencing the full intent of the artist is one of the best reasons to invest in original abstract paintings instead of reproductions. Many things affect the texture of original paintings, such as the type of brush the artist used and the thickness of the paint itself. Decorative finishes can also change the texture of a painting. For example, a gold leaf can add a smooth, shiny surface to certain areas of a painting to increase its appeal.

For more information on abstract original paintings, contact a professional near you.