Understanding Abstract Art.
By Dru Duffey
From our earliest years we are taught to identify and name everything in our environment. Objects in nature and man-made forms are recognized by shape, form, and color. So, each time we come across something new, our brains work to categorize it and put it in a specific box that makes sense.
However, Abstract Art takes those ideas of shape and form and explodes them. Sometimes it isn’t even about a recognizable form. It isn’t about
representing something real or natural.
Abstract Art uses shape, color, texture, and space to express an emotion, concept, or idea.
So, when you look at abstract art, first empty your mind. Don’t look at the title of it. Allow yourself to travel through and around the piece.
How does it make you feel? What thoughts come to your mind?
What memories surface?
Good abstract art draws you in and around the image. It contains interesting shapes and spaces. It might combine unusual color combinations. It might feature darkness, or light, or an unusual combination of them both.
Its mission is to draw you in and invoke thought, spark feeling, and imagination. There is no right or wrong interpretation or reaction.
It simply exists to connect to some piece of you.
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