How can something that represents nothing in particular be so eye-catching to look at? If you have once said, "That is easy to paint...who would pay that significant amount of money for something that doesn't even relate to anything?" then chances are you do not appreciate what Abstract Art really is. When looking at Abstract Art, you are seeing the most freely formed type of artwork an artist can create.

You would think that when looking at art that is non-representational, it would be less interesting to view as you do not know what the artist is truly trying to depict in his or her artwork. This is where the beauty of Abstract Art comes about. This type of art is meant to grab your attention and pull an emotional response right from within you. Once you see that part of the painting...the part that keeps you drawn in, keep your mind thinking, it is then when you know you are analyzing something special...something called Abstract Art.

So what grabs your attention when seeing this particular piece of art? Well let's think...what gets your attention in any circumstance? Why is a stop sign bright red? That's right...Abstract Art, in most circumstances, is filled with colors of all sorts that are meant to turn heads.  This characteristic, along with others such as the paintings texture and other elements, are what make this form of art one of the most popular styles collected today. The creativity involved with these pieces of art bring upon a new imagination that some viewers didn't know existed within them.

This art is from the heart and soul, instead of what you see is what you get. With that being said, you can now see that this type of art is more than just a thoughtless mess put on a canvas.

As for my own creations, every time I pass near a blank canvas I feel something explode inside of me. It is not something I can explain or pass on to someone else...but it is, always, a beginning of a new original creation. I think that this statement perfectly portrays what the viewers should feel when viewing an artist's abstract creation. Just as an artist gets this "explosion", we receive the same feeling when looking at artworks if we truly appreciate it. The beauty of non-representational art is that we can create the story within the painting. We can ask ourselves, "Why do these colors interact with each other?" or "What does this symbolize?".... And with those questions our imagination brings about answers. Sure, representational art is still beautiful in its own way, but the artist already has revealed what they want you to see.

In conclusion, everything in life is going to have its pro's and con's, its likes and dislikes.  Some people may love this type of decorative paintings, while others may think of it as a talent-less display of art.  Its way of breaking away from the representation of physical objects is what makes it different than any other kind of artwork.  In ways, it shows a different side of an artist...it shows emotions that come from inside that are shown using different colors and textures.  Different shapes and forms.  Abstract Art allows artists to let their creativity go free without having to worry about straight lines or perfect shapes.  Their creativity allows them to take nothing and turn it into something.  Not only something, but something that is pleasing to others which is a talent beyond itself.

How to Create Abstract Art

If you are interested in painting a piece of abstract art and have never done so before, here are some tips that may be able to help you achieve your goal.

To create a piece of abstract art, a strong imagination and good sense of creativity are required. Abstract art is being able to put different colors, shapes, and textures together to create a finished piece that represents something in particular. When painting this form of art, many artists start different ways depending on what they are feeling and how their imaginations work.

An easy way to begin is to think of an object that you want to paint. Now that you have an object in mind, abstract it. Pretend that the object is a blur and try painting the shapes and colors that you see most. You can add different shapes and colors to the painting to make it more abstract.

Interestingly enough, music is another tool that helps many artists begin their artwork. The rhythm of which the music is played can influence how fast or slow an artist works. It can also influence the actual painting in many ways...if the music is loud and fast, then the painting can be bright and loud. If the music is of a slower type, the painting can be dull and somber. The image below shows that even landscape paintings can be of an abstract representation.

This type of modern paintings is the most freely formed type of artwork; there is no right or wrong.

Let your mind take control and do the work for you. You will be surprised what you can come up with when your creativity and your somewhat spontaneous mind are put together. If this is your first time painting, here is a good way to get started with your work of art:

First you are going to need your materials...this will allow you to put your thoughts in a visual state for others to see. Go to your local art supply store and pick up a standard paint brush ($10.00). Sure there are expensive paint brushes but since you are inexperienced, an average paint brush will work fine. Along with your mind, this paint brush will be an important tool to getting your painting started. If you are interested, this link will give you helpful tips and information on how to use the paint brush correctly.

Now that you have your paint brush, the next item on the list would be the paint. Some abstract pieces are full of vibrant colors; while others could be black and white...this is your choice and your choice only! That is the beauty of abstract art...you can do whatever you would like, there are no rules to follow. A small paint set with four to five colors can be found over the internet for around $40.00. This would be perfect for beginners before buying the larger more expensive paint. There are several choices on Amazon, such as this one. Keep in mind that acrylic paint dries very quickly so you are able to over paint your creation many times.

So now you have your paint brush and your paint...the last component would be what you would like to paint on. It could be anywhere from basic paper to primed paper, or even onto canvas. Since you are a beginner, and painting on a canvas could be a bit expensive, I would start by painting on paper. There are many different types of paper depending on which medium you choose to paint with. Here is a list of all the different types of paper available.

Once you choose your paper you are all ready to start your abstract painting. The term abstract expressionism is a very popular type of abstract art. This is going about your painting with no plan whatsoever. This creates true abstractness as your brush takes over and thoughts from your mind go right onto your paper. You can do this, or you can go about your painting with a plan. You can know what you want to paint before you start painting. Sure this is less natural, but there have been many great pieces of abstract art that have come with a set plan. So choose what best suits you and start your painting.

Make sure you study your painting throughout painting it. Take time to stand back and see what you have created. This is important as you will be able to see where you can add more shapes and colors to justify the image you are trying to portray. Most importantly, remember to relax and have fun! Once you have finished your work of art, take in the joy and satisfaction that it brings you as you should be able to feel the connection you have with the painting. Next you can pick up your paintbrush again and start a new one!