ABSTRACTION IN DIFFERENT ART FORMS Common Themes Across Mediums A lack of narrative Non-recognisable objects or scenes Expresses rather than represents Open to interpretation - reality is subjective Artist conveys emotions symbolically rather than figuratively
Examples of Abstract Art
Cubism Abstract Expressionism Geometric Abstraction Constructivism Minimalism Macro photography
PHOTOGRAPHY A number of techniques can be used in both film and digital photography to create abstract prints that captivate and leave the viewer wondering what they may be looking at. Bokeh, light painting, intentional camera movement and macro photography are just some examples. SCULPTURE Abstract sculpture intentionally blurs the accuracy of the real world, for example by minimising facial features and softening or hardening natural shapes and lines. This type of abstract art has become very experimental, taking many forms and using many different types of materials to create thought provoking pieces of work. Often thought of only as an abstract painter, Pablo Picasso was in fact also a talented abstract sculptor.
PAINTINGS Abstract painting uses different paints such as acrylics and oils to create colours, layers, shapes, textures and compositions that symbolically communicate the artist's emotions and ideas. Because paintings are so subjective, different audiences will likely interpret then meaning of a painting quite differently. Well known abstract painters include Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock. DRAWINGS Abstract drawing uses materials such as inks, pencils, charcoals, pastels and graphite to create non-concrete representations of objects, subjects or scenes. Many techniques can be employed to abstract drawing including more controlled smudging with fingers or water through to less controlled, more modern expressive approaches such as drawing without looking and using your non- dominant hand to create sketches. GRAPHIC DESIGN Relatively new to the world of abstract art, abstract graphic design uses computer technology to create digital representations. The practice is different to more traditional art forms because of it's non permanence/ ability to undo elements of a design, hence some argue it is less truly expressive of 'the moment' then traditional methods. Despite this, abstract graphically designed prints are still ever popular in modern art and very common in advertising.