Abstract Paintings
ABSTRACT STYLE
Beginning in the early 20th century, abstract art became a leading style of modernism. Rather than portray the world in a way that represented reality, as had been the dominating style of Western art in the previous centuries, abstract paintings, prints and sculptures are marked by a shift to geometric forms, gestural shapes and experimentation with color to express ideas, subject matter and scenes.
Although abstract art flourished in the early 1900s, propelled by movements like Fauvism and Cubism, it was rooted in the 19th century. In the 1840s, J.M.W. Turner emphasized light and motion for atmospheric paintings in which concrete details were blurred, and Paul Cézanne challenged traditional expectations of perspective in the 1890s.
Some of the earliest abstract artists — Wassily Kandinsky and Hilma af Klint — expanded on these breakthroughs while using vivid colors and forms to channel spiritual concepts. Painter Piet Mondrian, a Dutch pioneer of the art movement, explored geometric abstraction partly owing to his belief in Theosophy, which is grounded in a search for higher spiritual truths and embraces philosophers of the Renaissance period and medieval mystics. Black Square, a daringly simple 1913 work by Russian artist Kazimir Malevich, was a watershed statement on creating art that was free “from the dead weight of the real world,” as he later wrote.
Surrealism in the 1920s, led by artists such as Salvador Dalí, Meret Oppenheim and others, saw painters creating abstract pieces in order to connect to the subconscious. When Abstract Expressionism emerged in New York during the mid-20th century, it similarly centered on the process of creation, in which Helen Frankenthaler’s expressive “soak-stain” technique, Jackson Pollock’s drips of paint, and Mark Rothko’s planes of color were a radical new type of abstraction.
Conceptual art, Pop art, Hard-Edge painting and many other movements offered fresh approaches to abstraction that continued into the 21st century, with major contemporary artists now exploring it, including Anish Kapoor, Mark Bradford, El Anatsui and Julie Mehretu.
Find original abstract paintings, sculptures, prints and other art on 1stDibs.
Style: Abstract
Color: Black
Joyspring - Blue Ocean Water Free Blues Abstract Contemporary Striking Invest
By Karnish Art
Located in Cullinan, ZA
Title: Joyspring
Blue Ocean Water Free Blues Abstract Contemporary Striking Invest
Joyspring - An everlasting spring or fountain of joy.
While creating this work, the artist was tr...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil, Acrylic
Patches (autumn)
Located in Lincoln, RI
Thank you for stopping by and looking at this wonderful piece. Based on an afghan, the patchwork of colors you see are leftovers pigments from past projects. Every artist has piles...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Plexiglass, Acrylic
Monumental Mid Century Modern Abstract Minimalist Sleek Design Oil Painting
Located in Buffalo, NY
An abstract mid century painting by Duayne Hatchett . Oil on canvas, circa 1973. Signed verso. Framed.
Duayne Hatchett was a visual artist whose work included prints, painting...
Category
1970s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Oil, Acrylic
Everything Happens For A Reason
Located in LAS ROZAS DE MADRID, ES
Shipped rolled in a tube without frame
Enamel and Acrylic on Canvas
The work itself is an impressive example of the artistic style known as "action painting". This style is charact...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Enamel
Abstract Watercolor Painting, 'Fire Spirit', 1992 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Abstract Watercolor Painting, 'Fire Series', C. 1996 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
The Blue Picnic Blanket- Figurative Contemplate Male Gentle Kind Colorful Flower
By Karnish Art
Located in Cullinan, ZA
Title: The Blue Picnic Blanket
Figurative Contemplate Male Masculine Gentle Kind Colorful Flowers Blossom Pink Blue
THE BLUE PICNIC BLANKET celebrates the quiet times, happy mome...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil, Acrylic
Nature of Light No. 6
Located in Nashville, TN
A series inspired by luminosity in her myriad forms.
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Abstract Watercolor Painting, 'Fire Series', C. 1992 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Fire Series', C. 1998 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
"Vertical Plane II" abstract painting on paper geometric, stacked shapes bright
Located in Hamburg, HH
One in a series of three abstract paintings made in 2023 by Amanda Andersen, initialed on the back.
An array of loose geometric shapes: rectangles, triangles and circles converse wi...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Acrylic, Gouache, Color Pencil
Organic Forms B86
Located in King, ON
This abstract painting from series “Organic Forms” is inspired by minimalism, modern art and hard edge.
This work is signed by Artist on the back. Signed certificate of authenticity....
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Gecko, Abstract Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
As a part of the Reptile series, artist Linda McCord creates a captivating abstract artwork crafted through the acrylic pouring technique. The vibrant and metal...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Jungle Nights Abstract
Located in Soquel, CA
Color, texture, light and shadow interplay in this dark jewel tone abstract by an unknown Bay Area abstract expressionist artist (American, 20th Century). Signed indistinctly ("Cydo"...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Gesso, Canvas, Oil
Nature of Light No. 2
Located in Nashville, TN
A series inspired by luminosity in her myriad forms.
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Central Park, Manhattan
Located in Baranzate, IT
TITLE: Central Park, Manhattan
ARTIST: Antonio Franchi
YEAR: 2017
CLASSIFICATION: Unique
MEDIUM TYPE: Painting
MEDIUM/MATERIALS: Acrylic on canvas
DIMENSIONS: 100 x 100 cm
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Green Groove
Located in Brooklyn, NY
I am fascinated by the individual’s relationship within society.
It is in this context that I exist.
Along the beaten path, I allow myself to observe from a multitude of vantage points; towards the recent past or a future yet to occur. This is what inspires me- the creative moment yet to happen, laden with limitless possibilities. When I take a look at the past, I identify social and personal nuances and their direct influence on my work, and then with excitement look for what comes next. In this process I take distance from myself and view with a critical eye. Ever evolving, I search for more.
I am neither a painter nor sculptor, much less a photographer or director, but I am a little bit of everything. I don’t feel bound to one specialized art form, and this allows me to navigate free and unencumbered by norms and expectations. My goal is not to achieve perfection in any one area, but rather to explore all disciplines- joyfully challenging myself, provoking and exploring beyond any pre-conceived limits.
In my work I try to establish a connection between my reality and the reality of those who dedicate a few minutes of observation. I’m constantly searching for the vanishing point that gives diverse expression to my artistic production. This is the creative fuel that drives me ever forward.
Paulo Canilhas...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Abundance - The Grapevine Feminine Humanity Colorful Striking Painting Sensual
By Karnish Art
Located in Cullinan, ZA
Title: Abundance - The Grapevine
Feminine Humanity Colorful Striking Painting Sensual Humanity Powerful Purple Turquoise Flowers Fruit Book Nature Grapes Landscape
This strikingly...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil, Acrylic
Contemporary abstract original canvas with dark blue, taupe and red
Located in Columbus, OH
A calming dreamlike experience with a bolt of energy in dark red.
Artist bio:
Dennis E. Smith (aka: Eugene DeSmith) attended high school in the San Fer...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Roller Coaster – No.5
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Tony Khawam is an established contemporary artist known for his figurative abstract work, and a technique based on accumulative singular strokes or lines in a chaotic but controlled ...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil Pastel
Roller Coaster – No.4
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Tony Khawam is an established contemporary artist known for his figurative abstract work, and a technique based on accumulative singular strokes or lines in a chaotic but controlled ...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil Pastel
Contemporary Black & White bold Abstract, Keith Haring inspired unique Painting
Located in Tempe, AZ
Contemporary black and white geometric abstract painting, created with acrylic and UV reactive acrylic accents as a unique surprise effect.
This artist draws inspiration from the great Keith Haring and creates beautiful and mesmerizing compositions with rich color and movement.
About the artist:
Avi Ash...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Multiple, Original Painting, Abstract Geometric, Interior Design
Located in AIX-EN-PROVENCE, FR
Vinyl and Acrylic painting on Linen Canvas - Original Painting, Abstract Geometric, Interior Design
Work Title : Multiple #2
Artist : Christophe Drodelot (French artist, Born in 1965...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Linen, Acrylic, Vinyl
Contemporary Color Swirls, Keith Haring inspired unique Abstract Painting
Located in Tempe, AZ
A truly unique and vibrant original abstract painting. Created with acrylic and UV reactive acrylic accents as a unique surprise effect.
This artist draws inspiration from the great Keith Haring and creates beautiful and mesmerizing compositions with rich color and movement.
About the artist:
Avi Ash...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Space, C. 2005 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Parliament Square, London
Located in Baranzate, IT
TITLE: Parliament Square, London
ARTIST: Antonio Franchi
YEAR: 2017
CLASSIFICATION: Unique
MEDIUM TYPE: Painting
MEDIUM/MATERIALS: Acrylic on canvas
DIMENSIONS: 100 x 100 cm
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Hokkaido
Located in Baranzate, IT
TITLE: Hokkaido
ARTIST: Antonio Franchi
YEAR: 2019
CLASSIFICATION: Unique
MEDIUM TYPE: Painting
MEDIUM/MATERIALS: Acrylic on canvas
DIMENSIONS: 100 x 100 cm
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Fire Series', C. 1995 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Space, C. 2005 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Untitled- Spheres - XXI century, Contemporary oil abstract painting, Canvas
By Klaudia Lata
Located in Warsaw, PL
KLAUDIA LATA (born in 1993) Graduate of painting at the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice. Diploma in 2017 in the studio of prof. Ireneusz Walczak. Scholarship holder of the Ministry ...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Oil
El Dorado 2 , 120x100cm
Located in Yerevan, AM
El Dorado 2 , 120x100cm
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Abstraction , 110x100cm
Located in Yerevan, AM
« Abstraction» , 110x100cm
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Indecision - Paint by Meriem Delacroix - 2023
Located in Roma, IT
This painting blends deep, turbulent blacks, brooding browns, and enigmatic grays to form a tumultuous, swirling backdrop. Within this chaotic canvas, sporadic bursts of stark white pierce through, resembling hesitant flashes of insight or doubt. The overall composition evokes a sense of inner conflict, as if the colors themselves are locked in a dance of uncertainty, creating a dynamic and emotionally charged portrayal of the struggle with indecision.
Mixed media on Canvas by Meriem Delacroix...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Mixed Media
Nature of Light No. 12
Located in Nashville, TN
A series inspired by luminosity in her myriad forms.
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Yellow Figure in Black Stockings
Located in Soquel, CA
Evocative yellow figure in black stockings oil painting by San Francisco artist Michael William Eggleston (American, 20th Century). From a collection o...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil, Paper
"Final Offering" (emotional, antique, statue painting on green dyed canvas)
Located in Paris, IDF
"Final Offering" delves into intricate details of a poignant scene. The viewer's gaze is drawn to a statuesque figure, with a hand gracefully outstretched, engaging in the tender act...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Dye, India Ink
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Sculpture', C. 2007 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Space, C. 2005 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Entangled, abstract, contemporary, black and white, drawing, painting
Located in Basalt, CO
This 72x36" charcoal and acrylic mixed media painting takes the viewer on a dive into the subconscious, wandering from thought to thought along the do...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Charcoal, Acrylic
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Sculpture, C. 2005 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Ruisseau De Nuit
Located in Solana Beach, CA
Acrylic on linen painting
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Linen, Acrylic
Descent into the Deep
Located in Belfast, GB
Descent into the Deep
Oil on Canvas
39 3/8 x 39 3/8 in
100 x 100 cm
"Paul's paintings are abstract and expressionistic his paintings are refreshingly individual and unique. We can see the brushstrokes, the palette knife, and the paint - which, combined with his rich palette, result in stunning semi-abstract paintings." Jo Baring - Curator of the Ingram Collection.
UK artist Paul Bennett...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil
"Simulacrum" (two faces, green, navy, bold, graphic abstract painting on canvas)
Located in Paris, IDF
"Simulacrum" is a commentary on the intricate interplay between the real and the digital, the tangible and the virtual. It is an invitation to question the authenticity of the experi...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic, Dye, Pigment
Lost Seas
Located in Belfast, GB
Lost Seas
Oil on Canvas
26 3/4 x 26 3/4 in
68 x 68 cm
"Paul's paintings are abstract and expressionistic his paintings are refreshingly individual and unique. We can see the brushstrokes, the palette knife, and the paint - which, combined with his rich palette, result in stunning semi-abstract paintings." Jo Baring - Curator of the Ingram Collection
UK artist Paul Bennett...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil
Flashlight Drawing One
Located in Toronto, ON
Amanda Nedham collapses the monumental and the mundane through radical memorial gestures. She is interested in how drawing intersects with architecture and is subject to change. In h...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Gesso, Watercolor, Graphite
Organic Forms B85
Located in King, ON
This abstract painting from series “Organic Forms” is inspired by minimalism, modern art and hard edge.
This work is signed by Artist on the back. Signed certificate of authenticity....
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Fire Series', C. 1996 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
AI 1-6
Located in West Hollywood, CA
ABOUT THE ARTWORK:
Kupferman's piece is an embodiment of inner consciousness, a manifestation of the artist's exploration of the ever-expanding realm of the human spirit. It beckons viewers to journey within, to reflect on the mysterious depths of their own existence and the cosmic forces that shape our lives.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
David Kupferman...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Composition #1 by Maria Cohen - Abstract painting, oil on canvas, 2017
Located in Basel, BS
Maria Cohen's artist statement: "The main objective of my research is to speculate about sexuality through the process, as a permanent process of producing...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Oil
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Space', C. 2000 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Mid-20th Century Abstract Geometric Oil Painting by Cleveland School Artist
By John Teyral
Located in Beachwood, OH
John Teyral (American, 1912-1999)
Abstract, 1965
Oil on canvas
Signed and dated lower right
32 x 30 inches
John Teyral was one of Cleveland's most acclaimed artists. He exhibited in...
Category
1960s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Oil
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Panel', C. 1994 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
1990s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Geoforms 81
Located in King, ON
This abstract painting from series “Geoforms” is inspired by minimalism, modern art and hard edge.
This work is signed, dated and tilted by Artist on the back. Signed certificate of ...
Category
2010s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Acrylic
Circuit of the Americas
Located in Baranzate, IT
TITLE: Circuit of the Americas
ARTIST: Antonio Franchi
YEAR: 2018
CLASSIFICATION: Unique
MEDIUM TYPE: Painting
MEDIUM/MATERIALS: Acrylic on canvas
DIMENSIONS: 80 x 80 cm
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Emotions in color
Located in Southampton, NY
In the manner of Mondrian, a strong 60's influence in the balance of strong colors and shapes. The background and foreground appear to undulate forward and backwards because of the a...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Oil
Night in New York
Located in Baranzate, IT
TITLE: Night in New York
ARTIST: Antonio Franchi
YEAR: 2017
CLASSIFICATION: Unique
MEDIUM TYPE: Painting
MEDIUM/MATERIALS: Acrylic on canvas
DIMENSIONS: 80 x 80 cm
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings
Materials
Acrylic
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Design for Light', c. 2000 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Contemporary Watercolor Painting, 'Designs for Light', c. 2000 by David Ruth
By David Ruth
Located in Oakland, CA
This is a contemporary abstract watercolor painting by artist David Ruth. This series of paintings often feature bright colors and vibrant layouts that draw the viewer in. They are c...
Category
Early 2000s Abstract Paintings
Materials
Paper, Watercolor
Abstract paintings for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a wide variety of authentic Abstract paintings available for sale on 1stDibs. Works in this style were very popular during the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artists have continued to produce works inspired by this movement. If you’re looking to add paintings created in this style to introduce contrast in an otherwise neutral space in your home, the works available on 1stDibs include elements of blue, purple, orange, red and other colors. Many Pop art paintings were created by popular artists on 1stDibs, including Giorgio Lo Fermo, Sumit Mehndiratta, Nestor Toro, and Cindy Shaoul. Frequently made by artists working with Paint, and Synthetic Resin Paint and other materials, all of these pieces for sale are unique and have attracted attention over the years. Not every interior allows for large Abstract paintings, so small editions measuring 0.1 inches across are also available.
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