Abstraction
Art that does not try to show real objects or people, but uses shapes, colors, and lines instead.
What is it?
Abstraction is when an artist simplifies or changes the way things look. Instead of painting a realistic tree, an abstract artist might paint a shape that suggests a tree. Some abstract art, like Mondrian's, uses only geometric shapes and primary colors. Abstraction allows artists to focus on feelings, ideas, or the basic elements of art.
Why it matters
Abstraction opened up new possibilities for art. It showed that art could be about ideas and emotions, not just about copying what we see. Many modern artists work in abstract styles.
Where you've seen it
This list grows as you capture more abstract artworks.