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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.

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Style: Abstract
Spring vibes. Modern colorful abstract painting 100x100 cm
Spring vibes. Modern colorful abstract painting 100x100 cm

Spring vibes. Modern colorful abstract painting 100x100 cm

By Anna Selina

Located in Zofingen, AG

This painting is about Harmony, Energy, Hope, Spring Energy. It will help you to focus on your Inner Strength, to see new possibilities and to fill with energy. Green,blue,yellow and...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

Forces of Nature 20  - Rich Textured Abstract Minimalist Beige Canvas Painting
Forces of Nature 20  - Rich Textured Abstract Minimalist Beige Canvas Painting

Forces of Nature 20 - Rich Textured Abstract Minimalist Beige Canvas Painting

By Len Klikunas

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Len Klikunas paints minimalist artworks to modify experienced reality through visual perception. The Blocks series is a mix of art and architecture, hovering between painting and scu...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Gesso, Canvas, Mixed Media

Brave Girl 12

Brave Girl 12

By Angels Grau

Located in New York, NY

Angels Grau is a Catalan artist who spends her time between Barcelona, New York, and a small village located in the breathtaking Priorat, one of the most notorious wine regions in Eu...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Wood, Acrylic

Lavender Field - Abstracted Landscape in Acrylic on Canvas
Lavender Field - Abstracted Landscape in Acrylic on Canvas

Lavender Field - Abstracted Landscape in Acrylic on Canvas

By Ilana Ingber

Located in Soquel, CA

Lavender Field - Abstracted Landscape in Acrylic on Canvas Vibrant landscape by Ilana Ingber (American, b. 1984). A bold purple field stretches out towards the horizon, where dark t...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic, Stretcher Bars

Layer Shift
Layer Shift

Layer Shift

By Svetlana Saratova

Located in Zofingen, AG

Abstract composition created on an MDF panel using mixed media techniques. The artwork is made from separate pieces of canvas covered with poured liquid acrylic, forming dynamic flow...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Acrylic, Clay, Mixed Media

Flower Arrangement in Carved Wooden Bowl - Abstract Botanical Painting on Paper
Flower Arrangement in Carved Wooden Bowl - Abstract Botanical Painting on Paper

Flower Arrangement in Carved Wooden Bowl - Abstract Botanical Painting on Paper

By Krisanne Souter

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Krisanne Souter weaves together elements of nature and ancient feminine archetypes, such as the Mother and the Mystic. Botanical themes, playful elements, and unexpected surprises ar...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Paper, Ink, Acrylic, Watercolor, Color Pencil

Indefinido. Mixed media Abstract painting on Canvas
Indefinido. Mixed media Abstract painting on Canvas

Indefinido. Mixed media Abstract painting on Canvas

By Alec Franco

Located in Miami Beach, FL

" The work resists framing in concepts, it overflows the contours and borders of the rational. It is through the presence of color, combined with an abstraction at times with express...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil Pastel, Mixed Media, Acrylic

'Basquiat' Abstract Street Art Mixed Media Painting, 2024
'Basquiat' Abstract Street Art Mixed Media Painting, 2024

'Basquiat' Abstract Street Art Mixed Media Painting, 2024

By Andrew Cotton

Located in New York, NY

'Basquiat', 2024 Andrew Cotton Mixed Media Painting 60 x 48 in. / 152 x 122 cm. Unique work, Signed by the Artist Originally from North London, Cotton received his art education at...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Mixed Media

Antique American School Mid Century Modern Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting
Antique American School Mid Century Modern Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting

Antique American School Mid Century Modern Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting

Located in Buffalo, NY

Antique American school abstract expressionist painting. Oil on board. Signed. In excellent original condition. Nicely framed in a period wood molding. Excellent condition, read...

Category

1940s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Composition No. 3
Composition No. 3

Composition No. 3

By Aliona Koroliova

Located in Zofingen, AG

“Composition #3” from the series “Quiet Motion” The work conveys a state of inner balance and gentle flow. Transparent layers and subtle lines evoke a sense of movement that emerges ...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Mixed Media

Quiet Strenght
Quiet Strenght

Quiet Strenght

Located in Zofingen, AG

"Quiet Strength" From the series "Between States" This work explores the state of inner resilience—a strength that does not manifest through tension or resistance, but exists as a qu...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Oil Pastel, Mixed Media, Acrylic

Ruz   6416 original abstract acrylic canvas painting
Ruz   6416 original abstract acrylic canvas painting

Ruz 6416 original abstract acrylic canvas painting

By Rafael Ruz

Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL

Red original abstract acrylic canvas painting Original work by the Spanish painter Rafael RUZ. Acrylic on canvas . Perfect state RUZ, Rafael (Barcelona 1956) While contemplating the ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Forever Roam-original oil abstract landscape painting - surreal contemporary art
Forever Roam-original oil abstract landscape painting - surreal contemporary art

Forever Roam-original oil abstract landscape painting - surreal contemporary art

By Alison Johnson

Located in London, Chelsea

We offer complimentary worldwide shipping and cover all tariffs and import taxes for this artwork. This exceptional artwork is currently on display and available for sale at Signet C...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Pastel Study 5 - Blue Tone Paris Eifel Tower City Still Life Painting on Paper
Pastel Study 5 - Blue Tone Paris Eifel Tower City Still Life Painting on Paper

Pastel Study 5 - Blue Tone Paris Eifel Tower City Still Life Painting on Paper

By Kathleen Keifer

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Kathleen Keifer's original artworks represent one of the most significant expressions of New California Realism. Keifer brings a fresh perspective to her colorful scenes of everyday ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Paper, Oil Pastel

Mid Century Modern Swedish Semi-Abstract Landscape Oil Painting - Canyon Edge
Mid Century Modern Swedish Semi-Abstract Landscape Oil Painting - Canyon Edge

Mid Century Modern Swedish Semi-Abstract Landscape Oil Painting - Canyon Edge

Located in Bristol, GB

CANYON EDGE Size: 36 x 46.5 cm (including frame) Oil on board A striking mid-century modernist landscape rendered in a semi-abstract style, that captures the sculptural quality of t...

Category

Mid-20th Century Abstract Paintings

Materials

Oil, Board

Untitled (1995). Gouache on paper by Sol Lewitt
Untitled (1995). Gouache on paper by Sol Lewitt

Untitled (1995). Gouache on paper by Sol Lewitt

By Sol LeWitt

Located in Hong Kong, HK

Sol LeWitt (1928-2007) Untitled Gouache on Paper 28.5 x 37.5 cm (11 1/4 x 14 3/4 in) Executed in 1995 Signed and dated 95 lower right Provenance Marco Noire Contemporary Art Turin...

Category

1990s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Paper, Gouache

Hui Sheng Landscape Original Oil On Canvas "Outside III"
Hui Sheng Landscape Original Oil On Canvas "Outside III"

Hui Sheng Landscape Original Oil On Canvas "Outside III"

By Hui Sheng

Located in New York, NY

Title: Outside III Medium: Oil on canvas Size: 23 x 31 inches Frame: Framing options available! Condition: The painting appears to be in excellent condition. Note: This painting is u...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

"The Playful Journey" Acrylic on Copper Abstract Composition 1997
"The Playful Journey" Acrylic on Copper Abstract Composition 1997

"The Playful Journey" Acrylic on Copper Abstract Composition 1997

By Stephen Schulz

Located in Soquel, CA

Bold and dynamic abstract composition titled "The Playful Journey" by Stephen Schulz (American, b. 1948). Schulz has used various types of acrylic paint, mixed with silicon to create a variety of textures. Signed and dated "Schulz 97" on verso, with an inscription that reads "For Leo and his Beautiful Family". Wood support frame on verso. Stephen Schulz (American, b. 1948) is an artist who has lived and worked in Fresno and Santa Cruz, California, and Cedar Grove, New Jersey. He has studied privately with Julie Connell, Jan Daniels, Michele Faia, Elle Fielder, Sal Pecoraro, Susan Stover, and Chris Volpe. Artist’s Statement: “My painting and artistic expression opens the doorway into an unconscious and creative world, where an uninhibited expression can take place, as one becomes immersed without the perception of time. Painting and design started it. From the beginning the process of transforming materials into art has struck me as a magical alchemy and, over the years, that mysterious process has had its hold on me, leading me from hobby to art. The creative process fills me with a sense of wonder and has proven a most amenable vehicle for transforming inner vision to outer reality. I paint from the inside out. Though I work quite deliberately, consciously employing both traditional and innovative techniques, my unconscious is the region of the most fertile of creative soil. I love working with a full complement of colors but often find my design direction working within the narrow spectrum of black and white, shadow and light. Some of my early inspiration comes from the New York School and artists such as Franz Kline and Jackson Pollock. Their ideas and techniques have helped to free my mind to explore areas of the unconscious that aren’t restricted by the world of right and wrong, good and bad. The journey continues and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to explore this exquisite world of the creative process.” Education: University of Oklahoma: 1966-1967 Canada College, AA Degree: 1972-1974 University of California: 1974-1975 Exhibitions: 2014 - Studio show Fresno, CA 2010 - Dubai (UAI) Animal rights show; Gallery 10, Washington, DC 2008, 2009 - Jia Salon & Gallery, Fresno, CA 2007 - Studio Exhibition 2006 - Cabrillo College 2004 - Studio Exhibition 2000, 2001, 2002 - Rollf's Gallery, Fresno, CA 2000 - Studio show; Bridgeport Gallery, CT 1999 - Tercera Gallery, Los Gatos, CA; Matt Miller Design, SF, CA 1998 - Robin Hutchins Gallery, NJ; Teroera Gallery Los Gatos, CA; Verve Gallery Los Angeles, CA; Open Studio Aptos, CA; Brigitte Bohlem, Hamburg, Germany 1997 - Robin Hutchins Gallery, NJ; Teroera Gallery, Los Gatos, CA; Verve Gallery, Los Angeles, CA; The Pope Gallery, Santa Cruz, CA; Hanson Art Source, Tennessee 1996 - Robin Hutchins Gallery, NJ; Teroera Gallery Los Gatos, CA; Verve Gallery, Los Angeles, CA; The Pope Gallery Santa Cruz, CA; Hanson Art Source, Tennessee; Barlett Fine Arts, Pleasant, CA; Birchstone, Gallery, Wisconsin 1995 - Abrahamsen Design; Teroera Gallery Los Gatos, CA; Verve Gallery, Los Angeles, CA; The Pope Gallery Santa Cruz, CA; Hanson Art Source, Tennessee; Barlett Fine Arts, Pleasant, CA; Birchstone, Gallery, Wisconsin; l&I Gallery, NJ; Gillen Design, London Ontario Canada...

Category

1990s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Copper

Elizabeth McKay Abstract Original Acrylic Painting Modern Geometric Art
Elizabeth McKay Abstract Original Acrylic Painting Modern Geometric Art

Elizabeth McKay Abstract Original Acrylic Painting Modern Geometric Art

Located in Palm Coast, FL

This is a striking original abstract acrylic painting on canvas by listed artist Elizabeth McKay, known for her modernist and geometric approach to contemporary art. This vibrant com...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

Abstract Composition - Oil Paint by Leo Guida - 1970s
Abstract Composition - Oil Paint by Leo Guida - 1970s

Abstract Composition - Oil Paint by Leo Guida - 1970s

By Leo Guida

Located in Roma, IT

Abstract composition is a contemporary artwork realized by Leo Guida in 1970s. Mixed colored oil on canvas Leo Guida (1992 - 2017). S ensitive to current issues, artistic movement...

Category

1970s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Oil

Mobi

Mobi

By Ed Moses

Located in Santa Monica, CA

Moses often referred to himself as a “mutator,” driven less by self-expression than by an insatiable curiosity to discover. Never content to remain within a singular visual language,...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

"Color dialogue" Contemporary abstract figurative still life painting on paper
"Color dialogue" Contemporary abstract figurative still life painting on paper

"Color dialogue" Contemporary abstract figurative still life painting on paper

By Mougenot Natalya

Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR

"Color Dialogue”: A Vibrant Original Floral Still Life in a Contemporary Expressionist, Metamodern Style by French Artist Natalya Mougenot This expressive 50 x 65 cm (approx. 19.7 x...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Paper, Acrylic

The Memory of Unknown Things 7(iii), Contemporary, Abstract
The Memory of Unknown Things 7(iii), Contemporary, Abstract

The Memory of Unknown Things 7(iii), Contemporary, Abstract

Located in Deddington, GB

The Memory of Unknown Things is a series of paintings exploring the experience of knowing something but not being able to retrieve it immediately from memory. Through the painting pr...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Chronos - Painting, Oil and acrylic on linen

Chronos - Painting, Oil and acrylic on linen

By J. Carino

Located in London, GB

J. Carino 1988 - Current Chronos, 2023 Oil and acrylic on linen 152.4 x 88.9 cm 60 x 35 in

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Linen, Oil, Acrylic

In a fearless reality, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas
In a fearless reality, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas

In a fearless reality, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas

By Nestor Toro

Located in Yardley, PA

Each color in this impactful painting was hand mixed with mica particles and iridescent mediums to make the lavender, orange, yellow, purple, blue and teal all pop and shine. The col...

Category

2010s Abstract Paintings

Materials

Acrylic

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.