What Is Abstract Art? A Simple Guide for Beginners

Abstract painting by Anisa Mosaiebiniya, Acrylic

You don’t have to “understand” abstract art — you just need to feel it.

For many people, abstract art is a mystery.It looks nothing like a traditional portrait or landscape. There's no clear subject, no obvious story — just color, form, and energy.

And that’s exactly what makes it so powerful.

In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down what abstract art really is, where it comes from, and how to approach it — whether you’re an artist, a collector, or just curious.

What Is Abstract Art?

Abstract art is any visual art that does not attempt to represent reality.Instead of painting exactly what an object looks like, abstract artists use shapes, lines, textures, and colors to express ideas, feelings, or concepts.

You can think of it as the language of emotion — less about what’s seen, and more about what’s felt.

A Quick History

Abstract art became prominent in the early 20th century as artists like Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, and Kazimir Malevich moved away from realism.

They believed art could be more than imitation — it could express inner truths, spirituality, chaos, silence, or movement.

Today, abstract art is one of the most diverse and global movements, shaped by artists from all cultures and disciplines.

“But I Don’t Get It...” — And That’s Okay

You don’t need an art degree to appreciate abstract art.There’s no “right” way to view it.

Here are a few tips:

• Don’t look for a story — look for a feelingLet the colors, shapes, and balance speak to you emotionally.

• Ask yourself: How does this make me feel?Confused? Energized? Calm? That’s the point — it creates a reaction.

• Get closer — or further awayAbstract work often changes impact depending on where you stand.

• Read the title or artist statement (if available)It may give you insight into the concept or message.

Abstract Art in Today’s World

Many of the artists featured at No.35 Gallery use abstraction as a tool for storytelling — especially women from the Middle East, where abstraction allows deeper cultural or personal messages to come through without being literal.

Abstract art is also popular in contemporary interior design because of its versatility and emotional tone. Whether soft and soothing or bold and dynamic, it sets a mood in any space.

Want to Explore Abstract Art?

Check out our curated collection of abstract works here.We regularly feature artists who use abstraction to explore themes like identity, memory, conflict, femininity, and migration.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to “solve” abstract art.You just need to let yourself experience it.

So next time you see a piece of art that doesn’t “look like” anything — don’t turn away.

Pause.Feel it.Let it speak to something unspoken inside you.

Because that — that’s abstract art.