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.
Period Italian Fausto Pirandello Signed Abstract Artwork
Located in Roma, IT
Important work by one of the greatest artists of the Italian artistic avant-garde Fausto Pirandello It depicts one of his iconic subjects ‘Bathers’ with five characters depicted in ...
Paper, Pastel
Weightless Presence, seafoam green, pink, soft, serene, atmospheric
Located in Cumming, GA
This original abstract painting evokes a sense of ethereal calm, where soft whites and pale aqua tones drift together like whispers of clouds across the sky. The delicate layers and ...
Canvas, Acrylic
"Evidence " ( contemporary semi& abstract nature landscape)
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
In this semi-abstract expressive artwork named "Evidence" I experience the world of nature through various colors such as purple, green, blue, red. While painting, I sought to capt...
Acrylic, Paper
$6,700
Inscape 1 - Original Expressionist Mixed Media Cool Tone Painting on Canvas
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The paintings of Bruce Rubenstein seamlessly marry sophistication with affordability. His expressive abstract landscape artwork 'Inscape 1' features whimsical details and vibrant org...
Enamel
Large French Abstract Oil Painting Autumnal Colors
By Andre Copin
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Superb large scale French abstract oil painting by the popular 20th century French painter, Andre Copin (1911-1998). The painting is signed to the lower corner and dates to circa 198...
Oil
$1,125Sale Price|25% Off
"Spring" Floral Art
Located in Zofingen, AG
Abstract textured acrylic painting on canvas 90x90x2 cm (35,4 x 35,4 x0,8inches). Mixed Media on gallery wrapped canvas. The work is ready to hang. No framing required. The sides of ...
Canvas, Spray Paint, Acrylic
One Way or Another
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This black and white abstract acrylic painting is inspired by the mid-century masters like Franz Kline. Framed in a beautiful wood frame, wired and ready to hang, 17 in. wide x 21 in...
Acrylic
"The Denizens of Delight - Fun with Matisse", Abstract, Mixed Media Painting
By Peter Knapp
Located in Franklin, MA
Peter Knapp’s “The Denizens of Delight – Fun with Matisse” is a 27.375 x 38.25 x 1 inch mixed media abstract painting on panel in blue, purple, orange, and green acrylic, ink, and co...
Archival Ink, Acrylic, Panel, Color Pencil
Abstract Blue Mountains Gouache Painting on Paper, Circa 1960s
Located in Arp, TX
Thelma Corbin Moody Blue Mountains c. 1960's Gouache on Arches Paper 19 1/4" x 24 3/4", Unframed Unsigned Lovely, mid century gouache painting, b...
Paper, Gouache
The Hush of Winter, Abstract Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
A quiet, enveloping atmosphere emerges. The abstract scene evokes the stillness of winter days when hushed sound and landscape rest within a veil of calm. Subtl...
Oil
$22,000
Nocturne
By Marina Stern
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This work is part of our exhibition Marina Stern Luminary, the first retrospective of the artist since 2007. Marina Stern was a multifaceted New York-based artist whose works range...
Canvas, Oil
Untitled 154_25 (Abstract Painting)
Located in London, GB
Ludovic Dervillez is a French abstract painter whose practice is a powerful interrogation of how painting can still be a living, resonant space, focusing on the vital tension between...
Canvas, Mixed Media
Bronze Table I
Located in Dallas, TX
Bronze & Steel Table
Bronze, Steel
Untitled Abstract Composition, Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting
By Jay Milder
Located in Surfside, FL
This is being sold unframed. Jay Milder (born 1934) is an American artist and a figurative expressionist painter of the second generation New York School. Old Testament themes such ...
Canvas, Oil
Raspberry peony on a golden background.
Located in Zofingen, AG
This painting is created with acrylic on canvas and depicts a realistic peony on a golden background. The flower is rendered in deep burgundy and crimson tones, its velvety petals u...
Canvas, Acrylic
Evening over Green, Abstract Oil Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Bold texture and vibrant color convey the drama of Tennessee’s summer evenings. A vast sky of purples and blues reflects the shifting light at dusk, while lay...
Oil
#139, Abstract, Photography, Painting, Expressionism
Located in München, BY
Unique piece in this size More sizes and an Essay from Lyle Rexer about this series on request. Joachim Schmeisser’s work rescues photography from the centuries-old straightjacket ...
Pigment
Forever Hope - Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, Framed, 1980s
Located in Bloomfield, ON
This modern abstract is a Harold Feist 'spoke' painting. Early in his career, Canadian artist Harold Feist was mentored by the famed New York Art critic, Clement Greenberg and the f...
Canvas, Acrylic
$365
Abstract impressionist nature acrylic on paper "Serenity in the mountains"
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
This contemporary abstract impressionist nature painting, infused with a touch of modernity and expressive flair, is titled "Serenity in the Mountains." Vibrant and evocative, this ...
Paper, Acrylic
$447
Contemporary impressionist floral acrylic painting paper "Narcissus of spring"
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
This contemporary floral painting, created by French artist Natalya Mougenot, captures the essence of spring with a striking arrangement of narcissus flowers in a pot. Mougenot's wor...
Paper, Acrylic
Contemporary abstract impressionist nature acrylic painting "Nestled in silence"
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
Cézanne & Matisse Inspired – Abstract Expressionist Landscape – "Nestled in Silence" – Original Acrylic Painting on Heavy-Weight Professional Paper (50 × 65 cm / 19.7 × 25.6 in), Unf...
Paper, Acrylic
$6,800
It's Going to be the Sunny side from now on - contemporary, acrylic on canvas
Located in Bloomfield, ON
This contemporary abstract painting is by Fiona Ackerman. Vancouver-based artist Fiona Ackerman’s singularly unique visual language has attracted an international audience. Her oeuv...
Acrylic
The Emerald Archipelago by Frédérique Domergue - Contemporary abstract painting
Located in Paris, FR
The Emerald Archipelago is a unique painting by French contemporary artist Frédérique Domergue. This painting is made with oxidized bronze leaves on aluminium panel, patina fixed wit...
Bronze
Large Vintage American Modernist Framed Abstract Expressionist Signed Painting
Located in Buffalo, NY
Large vintage American modernist oil painting. Oil on canvas. Signed. Framed. Provenance from a Sag Harbor, NY collection. Handsomely framed. Excellent condition, ready to hang and ...
Oil, Canvas
$3,400
"Avec Des Épines" (abstract, dark, floral, roses, red, black, antique linen)
Located in Paris, IDF
AVEC DES ÉPINES 2024 Paris, France The French title of the work translates in English to "With Thorns". The painting captures the rose’s mysterious allure, balancing beauty with an...
Linen, Dye
$3,000
"E.S.H. IV" (animalia, fauna, figurative, horse sculpture, historical, abstract)
Located in Paris, IDF
E.S.H. IV PARIS, France 2023 Inspired by sculptures and statues of Europe, a horse and rider are depicted as a black silhouetted abstraction. White and grey acrylic paint over text...
Canvas, Dye, Acrylic
Another Way To See, Small Works No. 143
Located in New York, NY
As a whole, these paintings continue my exploration of building forms through intuitive, responsive painting. It has been five years since my first show at SEFA Hudson, and I’m thril...
Oil
$3,900
Absorbed in Brilliance (Gerhard Richter Style Abstract Painting in Blue & Teal)
By Bruce Murphy
Located in Hudson, NY
Abstract expressionist painting in the style of Gerhard Richter in a blue, teal, and green palette with accents of peach, yellow, and pink "Absorbed in Brilliance", made by Bruce Mur...
Enamel
$879
Abstract Oil Painting by Yvette Dubois-Habasque, Signed, 21st Century
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Abstract, by Yvette Dubois-Habasque (1929-2016) signed with initials and dated verso oil painting on artists board, unframed painting measures: 9.5 x 13 inches Stunning original ab...
Oil
Time with Myself
Located in Zofingen, AG
This artwork is part of the series Return to Herself, dedicated to a woman and her body as a place of return to oneself, to an inner rhythm, rest, and silence. It explores a state in...
Canvas, Acrylic
Viktor Kobylianski Abstract Composition Rose Tones Mixed Media on Canvas Large
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
At Escat Gallery we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of trust and professionalism for our collectors. Every artwork in our collection comes with a Certificate of Au...
Cotton Canvas, Mixed Media, Pigment
$3,200
Abstract Landscape Mixed Media Oil Painting New York 1959 America New York Blue
Located in Buffalo, NY
This evocative abstract landscape by Ralph Roseborg exemplifies the expressive power of American postwar abstraction at the close of the 1960s. Painted in 1969, the composition unfol...
Paper, Acrylic
$6,475
Emma Labattaglia Abstract Large Contemporary Grid Painting in Earth Tones
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
At Escat Gallery, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of trust and professionalism for our collectors. Every artwork in our collection includes a Certificate of Authe...
Cotton Canvas, Oil
$2,825
Contemporary Blue Geometric Abstract Painting on Linen, Minimalist Composition
By Blanca Nieto
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
At Escat Gallery we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of trust and professionalism for our collectors. Every artwork in our collection comes with a Certificate of Au...
Silk, Cord, Pigment
#260, Abstract, Photography, Painting, Expressionism
Located in München, BY
Unique piece in this size More sizes and an Essay from Lyle Rexer about this series on request. Joachim Schmeisser’s work rescues photography from the centuries-old straightjacket ...
Pigment
French Expressionist Abstract Original Painting Artists Studio Provenance
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Abstract Expressionist Composition by Jacques COULAIS (1955-2011) gouache painting on paper/ card unframed: 19.5 x 13 inches condition: excellent provenance: all the paintings we hav...
Oil
Large Vintage American Modernist Abstract Naturescape Lake View Oil Painting
Located in Buffalo, NY
Vintage American modernist abstract oil painting. Oil on canvas. Framed. Measuring: 26 by 30 inches overall, and 22 by 25 painting alone.. In excellent original condition. Handsomel...
Canvas, Oil
$4,000
Mystic Arboretum - Large Contemporary Abstract Geometric Botanical Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Harrison Gilman's large original artworks begin with a layer of fast-paced gestural abstraction followed by organic shapes and geometric structures. Some of his paintings remain in t...
Canvas, Acrylic
Mountain High - Large Original Abstract Expressionism Playful Landscape Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The paintings of Bruce Rubenstein seamlessly marry sophistication with affordability. His expressive abstract landscape artwork 'Flourishing Fields' features whimsical details and vi...
Canvas, Charcoal, Oil Pastel, Mixed Media, Acrylic
Large Antique American Abstract Expressionist Flower Still Life Oil Painting
Located in Buffalo, NY
Antique American modernist abstract still life painting. Oil on canvas. Framed. Signed verso. Measuring: 48 by 56 inches overall, and 46 by 54 painting alone. In excellent origina...
Canvas, Oil
LARGE FRENCH CONTEMPORARY ABSTRACT CUBIST PAINTING - RENE LEROY (B.1932)
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Artist/ School: Rene Leroy (French b. 1932) signed Title: Abstract/ Cubist Composition Medium: mixed media, material and oil on canvas, framed, signed Size: frame: 29.5 x 37 ...
Oil
Vintage American Modernist Abstract Expressionist Framed Large Oil Painting
Located in Buffalo, NY
Vintage American modernist abstract oil painting. Oil on canvas. Framed. Unsigned. Measuring: 46 by 58 inches overall, and 45 by 57 painting alone.. In excellent original condition...
Oil, Canvas
$1,285
A Moment In Time - Color Drenched Impasto Mixed Media Textural Abstract Painting
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Impasto-painted strokes of bright colors are the framework of artist Shiri Phillips’ abstract artworks. Her paintings are flooded with texture through the layering of acrylic paint i...
Canvas, Glitter, Acrylic
Moonlight, Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting on Board by Leonardo Nierman
Located in Long Island City, NY
Leonardo Nierman, Mexican (1932 - 2023) - Moonlight, Medium: Oil on board, Size: 32 x 24 in. (81.28 x 60.96 cm), Frame Size: 40 x 32 inches
Oil
Abstract expressive floral acrylic painting on paper "Flourish of colors"
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
The abstract floral artwork "Flourish of Colors" by French artist Natalya Mougenot is part of her Floral series. This vibrant painting bursts with energy, capturing a rich array of c...
Paper, Acrylic
Open Spaces, Abstract Painting
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Soft whites and cool blues create a tranquil, expansive space. Accents of orange and fine linework bring contrast and gentle energy. Minimalist abstract forms i...
Acrylic
"umbrella girl series" RK2GE1, Abstract, Painting, 21st Century, Acrylic
By Roger König
Located in Dessau-Rosslau, Sachsen Anhalt
Gold Edition - with real gold leaf, 23,75 carat Art measures 11.81 x 11.81 inches Frame measures 17.32 x 17.32 x 1.57 inches Framed in a high-quality contemporary wooden moulding....
Clay, Acrylic
$2,520Sale Price|30% Off
Heart of the sea - Blue abstract seascape painting
Located in Silverthorne, CO
"Heart of the sea" is a large blue abstract landscape painting, depicting the grandeur of the sea. It is made in a stunning palette of blues, with a bright yellow light at its center...
Oil
"Wavelet" Fine Art Mirror
Located in Westport, CT
This abstract fine art mirror by Alina B is made with dichroic film on mirror, and is framed in a champagne-toned frame. The film on the mirror allows for it, and the space it reflec...
Mirror, Film
Hui Sheng Landscape Original Oil On Canvas "Outside III"
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...
Canvas, Oil
Black fish on a gold background.
Located in Zofingen, AG
The work is executed in stencil technique using black paint on a gold acrylic background. The metallic gold surface creates a soft shimmer and enhances the contrast with the graphic ...
Canvas, Acrylic
Deep Blue, Abstract Oil Painting
By Heidi Hybl
Located in San Francisco, CA
Artist Comments
Deep blues sit below the composition, while soft cream tones rest above. The colors illustrate the sky and water along the Big Sur Coast, where artist Heidi Hyb...
Oil
Large French 20th Century Abstract Landscape Gorges De Verdon Provence
Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire
Abstract Expressionist Composition by Gilbert Pelissier (French born 1924) signed, inscribed verso oil painting on canvas, unframed canvas size: 36 x 29 inches condition: overall ver...
Canvas, Oil
Turquoise turtle in gold
Located in Zofingen, AG
The painting is created in a mixed media technique using gold leaf. The central image of the composition is a sea turtle — a symbol of harmony, wisdom, and tranquility. The turtle’s...
Canvas, Acrylic, Mixed Media
$412
Expressive impressionist floral acrylic painting on paper "Spring's flowers"
Located in VÉNISSIEUX, FR
This contemporary abstract expressive Impressionist floral painting was created by French artist Natalya Mougenot, whose signature style brings emotion and energy to every brushstrok...
Acrylic, Paper
Evening in The Tropics, Geometric Tiles in Yellow, Miami Sunset Patterns
Located in Barcelona, ES
These series of paintings by Natalia Roman gather their inspiration from geometric, minimalist shapes and paintings from the beginning of Modernism, with a special emphasis on Art De...
Watercolor, Acrylic, Handmade Paper
$1,250Sale Price|78% Off
A View to Remember
Located in Atlanta, GA
This painting is in excellent condition, new gallery arrival. Cortes is a Spanish artist born in Valencia in 1963. He began law studies in his hometown, which he abandoned to devote...
Canvas, Oil
FT 1 - Pastel color abstract geometric painting on canvas
By Evan Venegas
Located in New York, NY
Evan Venegas studied at the San Francisco Art Institute and earned his BFA in Painting in 1998. Evan Venegas creates artwork that lives at the intersection of geometry and atmosphere...
Acrylic
Ruz RAISON D´ÉTRE canvas - Abstract Acrylic Painting
By Rafael Ruz
Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL
Original artwork by Spanish artist Rafael Ruz. Acrylic in perfect condition. While contemplating the painting of Ruz, we are inclined to talk about real ‘psychodrama’, in the sam...
Cotton Canvas, Acrylic
Love and Rage /// Contemporary Female Woman Abstract Expressionist Painting Art
Located in Saint Augustine, FL
Artist: Margaux Halloran (American, 1999-) Title: "Love and Rage" *Monogram signed by Halloran lower right. It is also signed, dated, and titled on verso Year: 2021 Medium: Original ...
Canvas, Paint, Oil
The Italian-American’s 2020 abstract painting “The Hoe” personifies his “art of not knowing.”
In his current show at New York's Lehmann Maupin gallery, the Puerto Rican–born talent reveals new paintings with a semiautobiographical aspect.