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Abstract Art

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
Registros en el este II. From The Series Registros
Registros en el este II. From The Series Registros

Registros en el este II. From The Series Registros

Located in Miami Beach, FL

​Impressions of past lives, perceptions of future lives. The Records series carries that mystery. Simple and profound since its deed does not happen on the surface. Although it manif...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Canvas, Mixed Media

Oh So Blue - Tall Modern Large Contemporary Abstract Minimalism Steel Sculpture
Oh So Blue - Tall Modern Large Contemporary Abstract Minimalism Steel Sculpture

Oh So Blue - Tall Modern Large Contemporary Abstract Minimalism Steel Sculpture

By Granville Beals

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Inspired by dance and weightlessness, Granville Beals' industrial metal sculptures are primarily about relationships. Concerned with form and abstraction, he does not merely manipula...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Metal, Steel

May 29 (Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting in Earth Tones of Green & Blue)
May 29 (Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting in Earth Tones of Green & Blue)

May 29 (Abstract Expressionist Oil Painting in Earth Tones of Green & Blue)

By James O'Shea

Located in Hudson, NY

Gestural, abstract expressionist oil painting on canvas in earth tones of blue and green, with accents of burgundy and pale yellow "May 29", Painted by Hudson Valley based artist, James O'Shea in 2021 Oil on canvas, 26 x 26 inches unframed, raw canvas sides Wire backing, ready to hang Signed verso James O’Shea’s deeply pigmented abstractions are grounded in the landscape. Taking his cues from the bare winter months in the Northeast when the horizon is stripped of its foliage, he suggests that “So much of life’s structure reveals itself when it goes into hibernation”. The architecture in O’Shea’s compositions takes form with expressive gestures using...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Knot 1

Knot 1

Located in Dallas, TX

acrylic & labels on paper

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Paper, Acrylic

Go Softly, Abstract Painting
Go Softly, Abstract Painting

Go Softly, Abstract Painting

Located in San Francisco, CA

Artist Comments
Shades of blue, gray, and black blend to create a serene, misty seascape. Gentle brushstrokes give the impression of a ship or a city in the distance. The overall effect evokes a sense of tranquility and open space.


About the Artist
Artist Dorothy Gaziano...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Acrylic

Spring 69
Spring 69

Spring 69

By Nancy Genn

Located in San Francisco, CA

This artwork titled "Spring 69" 1969 is an original color lithograph by American artist Nancy Genn, b. 1929. It is hand signed, titled and inscribed Artist Proof in pencil by the artist. The size is 23.75 x 34.65 inches. It is in excellent condition, it has very small marks in the back due to tape removal from previous framing, not visible from the front. About the artist: Nancy Genn is an American artist living and working in Berkeley, California known for works in a variety of media, including paintings, bronze sculpture, printmaking, and handmade paper rooted in the Japanese washi paper making tradition Her work explores geometric abstraction, non-objective form, and calligraphic mark making, and features light, landscape, water, and architecture motifs. She is influenced by her extensive travels, and Asian craft, aesthetics and spiritual traditions. Genn's first noted solo exhibition was in 1955 at Gump's Gallery in San Francisco. She received international recognition through her inclusion in French art critic Michel Tapié’s seminal text Morphologie Autre (1960), which cited her as one of the most important exponents of post-war informal art. Her abstract expressionist paintings of this period, continuing through the mid-1970s, featured all-over compositions of colorful layers of gestural brushwork and calligraphic mark making resembling asemic writing. In 1961, Genn began creating bronze sculptures using the lost-wax casting method. Influenced by noted sculptor and family friend Claire Falkenstein, who used open-formed structures in her work, Genn cast forms woven from long grape vine cuttings, and produced vessels, fountains, fire screens, a menorah, a lectern, and, notably, the Cowell Fountain (1966) at UC Santa Cruz. In 1963 her sculptural work was exhibited with Berkeley artists Peter Voulkos and Harold Paris in the influential exhibition Creative Casting curated by Paul J. Smith at the Museum of Contemporary Crafts, New York. Genn was one of the first American artists to express herself through handmade paper, first receiving wide recognition via exhibitions at Susan Caldwell Gallery, New York, beginning in 1977, and in traveling exhibitions with Robert Rauschenberg and Sam Francis. In 1978-1979, supported by the National Endowment for the Arts and Japan Creative Arts Fellowship, she studied papermaking in Japan, visiting local paper craftspeople, working in Shikenjo studio in Saitama Prefecture,[5] and exhibiting her work in Tokyo. She also learned techniques from Donald Farnsworth...

Category

Early 20th Century Abstract Art

Materials

Lithograph

Africa - abstract painting
Africa - abstract painting

Africa - abstract painting

Located in New York, NY

This abstract piece captures as an African vibe to it, with soft shades of brown and gold. "I am an interior designer and painter, bridging worlds – connecting lines and colors, pre...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Silkscreen Pedro Friedeberg, " AMAZONAS ODIOSONAS "
Silkscreen Pedro Friedeberg, " AMAZONAS ODIOSONAS "

Silkscreen Pedro Friedeberg, " AMAZONAS ODIOSONAS "

By Pedro Friedeberg

Located in Cuauhtemoc, Ciudad de México

Pedro Friedeberg signed lithograph featuring a fantastical architectural scene inspired by “Struwwelpeter.” includes whimsical figures, optical art elements, and surreal details. fra...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Etching

"Wavelet" Fine Art Mirror
"Wavelet" Fine Art Mirror

"Wavelet" Fine Art Mirror

By Alina Bisikirskaite

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...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Mirror, Film

Untitled (Abstract Expressionist)
Untitled (Abstract Expressionist)

Untitled (Abstract Expressionist)

By Murray Hantman

Located in Wilton Manors, FL

Murray Hantman (1904-1999). Untitled, ca. 1950-55. Oil on canvas measures 20 x 26 inches, 26 x 32 inches in silver leaf vintage frame.. Signed lower right. Excellent condition with ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Abstract Art

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Joan Miro. Original single piece mixed technique painting
Joan Miro. Original single piece mixed technique painting

Joan Miro. Original single piece mixed technique painting

By Joan Miró

Located in CORAL GABLES - MIAMI, FL

Joan Miro. Original single piece mixed technique painting Joan Miro Ferra 1893-1983 Original Study for “EL GOLAFRE ".NOT SIGNED 1979 Unique. Gouache, lithotint and crayon on paper ...

Category

Late 20th Century Abstract Art

Materials

Paper, Ink, Gouache

Futuristica 3 (Original Mixed Media Artwork)
Futuristica 3 (Original Mixed Media Artwork)

Futuristica 3 (Original Mixed Media Artwork)

By Mauro Oliveira

Located in LOS ANGELES, CA

**STORE CLOSURE - UP TO 80% OFF - TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT** ***EVERYTHING MUST GO BY DECEMBER 31ST!*** >>The artist is moving to a new full time venture in 2026<< _________...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Mixed Media

Contemporary Abstract Oriental Signed Painting
Contemporary Abstract Oriental Signed Painting

Contemporary Abstract Oriental Signed Painting

By Kozo Inoue

Located in Roma, IT

Wonderful contemporary abstract signed painting Series of 4 canvas assembled to form a single painting signed Kozo Inoue dated 1974 This painting, never before on the market, comes f...

Category

Mid-20th Century Abstract Art

Materials

Canvas, Oil

A870 - Original Large Scale Minimalist Contemporary Expressive Abstract Painting
A870 - Original Large Scale Minimalist Contemporary Expressive Abstract Painting

A870 - Original Large Scale Minimalist Contemporary Expressive Abstract Painting

By Marco Schmidli

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Swiss-born artist Marco Schmidli creates large-scale minimalist paintings reminiscent of color field studies with a contemporary edge. Placing emphasis on process, he lets the medium...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Summer Rain 14

Summer Rain 14

By Liz Barber

Located in Napa, CA

Liz Barber pursued painting while obtaining her degree from the Massachusetts College of Art and Moore College of Art. She currently resides in Marietta, Georgia. Barber’s paintings ...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Paint, Ink, Acrylic, Graphite

Abstract 2288
Abstract 2288

Abstract 2288

Located in Zofingen, AG

There’s something ethereal, almost magical, about contemporary paintings. The incredible Expressionism bleeds through the canvas, transforming any room into an entirely new experienc...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Acrylic

Original-Lime Tree Path in Autumn-British Awarded Artist-en plein air-Oil Canvas
Original-Lime Tree Path in Autumn-British Awarded Artist-en plein air-Oil Canvas

Original-Lime Tree Path in Autumn-British Awarded Artist-en plein air-Oil Canvas

Located in London, GB

Lime Tree Path in Autumn is the newest work in Shizico Yi’s deeply personal Autumn Series, a project that has become an instant classic within her celebrated career. Painted en plein...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Gesso, Canvas, Oil, Acrylic

CC #86 - Green Blue Abstract Geometric Wall Sculpture
CC #86 - Green Blue Abstract Geometric Wall Sculpture

CC #86 - Green Blue Abstract Geometric Wall Sculpture

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Anna Kruhelska, a talented visual artist and practicing architect from Lodz, Poland, merges her expertise in both fields to create captivating artworks. With a background in major ar...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Wood, Plywood, Mixed Media, Acrylic

Geometric Composition - Original Lithograph
Geometric Composition - Original Lithograph

Geometric Composition - Original Lithograph

By Max Bill

Located in Paris, IDF

Max Bill Geometric composition, 1975 Original lithograph Unsigned and unnumbered as usual Limited edition of 575 copies On Arches vellum, size 35 x 27 cm (c. 14 x 10 in) Excellent ...

Category

1970s Abstract Art

Materials

Lithograph

Newman, Sans titre, In Memory of My Feelings (after)
Newman, Sans titre, In Memory of My Feelings (after)

Newman, Sans titre, In Memory of My Feelings (after)

By Barnett Newman

Located in Southampton, NY

Lithograph on vélin Mohawk Superfine Smooth paper. Paper Size: 11.937 x 8.96 inches. Inscription: Signed in the plate and unnumbered, as issued. Notes: From the folio, In Memory of M...

Category

1960s Abstract Art

Materials

Lithograph

Abstract composition
Abstract composition

Abstract composition

Located in Genève, GE

Work on canvas Golden wooden frame 63 x 72 x 5 cm

Category

1960s Abstract Art

Materials

Oil

Hushed Moment 2

Hushed Moment 2

By Amy Van Winkle

Located in Santa Fe, NM

Encaustic on panel. It's simple; I create art because it makes me happy. I try not to overthink the process of what I’m painting and let my intuition be my guide. I love laying do...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Encaustic

Nick Thomm - AFTER DARK (ORANGE)

Nick Thomm - AFTER DARK (ORANGE)

Located in FITZROY, VIC

Nick Thomm 'After Dark' (Orange) 69cm x 92cm (27"×36″) Limited Edition of 125 Hand Signed and Numbered #76 Archival Pigment Print on Hahnemühle 308gsm Fine Art Paper. Condition: NE...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Archival Ink, Giclée, Archival Pigment

Colorful abstract lithograph mid 20th Century signed and numbered.
Colorful abstract lithograph mid 20th Century signed and numbered.

Colorful abstract lithograph mid 20th Century signed and numbered.

By (circle of) Pierre Ambrogiani

Located in Belgrade, MT

This colorful lithograph is part of my private collection. It is a limited edition , 1 print available, signed and numbered 25/150. It is in very good condition. Vibrant and colorful.

Category

Mid-20th Century Abstract Art

Materials

Lithograph

Abstract Expressionist Painting American Late 1960's Mid Century New York Brown
Abstract Expressionist Painting American Late 1960's Mid Century New York Brown

Abstract Expressionist Painting American Late 1960's Mid Century New York Brown

Located in Buffalo, NY

Mid Century Modern, American Abstract Expressionist Painting on Masonite. This wonderful work in hues of blue comes house in a contemporary natural wood frame presentation.. The ar...

Category

1960s Abstract Art

Materials

Masonite, Acrylic

ABSTRACT  Color Lines Artwork by Big Dimensions Contemporary Celia Lees
ABSTRACT  Color Lines Artwork by Big Dimensions Contemporary Celia Lees

ABSTRACT Color Lines Artwork by Big Dimensions Contemporary Celia Lees

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

A work of very large dimensions. It would need to be sent rolled to the recipient's address. We can provide support for assembly at the customer's destination. 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 Authenticity, guaranteeing its originality and provenance. We offer secure worldwide delivery to any address you specify, ensuring that your purchase arrives in pristine condition. If you require additional shipping options or a bespoke quote from our trusted network of carriers, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to help you find the best solutions for a smooth and secure delivery experience. Celia Lees...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Ink, Oil, Acrylic

Squeezed Blue Fiddle Signed Limited Edition Screen Print
Squeezed Blue Fiddle Signed Limited Edition Screen Print

Squeezed Blue Fiddle Signed Limited Edition Screen Print

By Arman

Located in Rochester Hills, MI

Pierre Fernandez Arman Year: 1978 Squeezed Blue Fiddle Medium Type: Screen print on Arches Paper Size-Width Size-Height: 22'' x 30'' Edition Size: Signed in pencil and marked 121/...

Category

1970s Abstract Art

Materials

Screen

"Roses in the vase"

"Roses in the vase"

Located in Edinburgh, GB

The series of flowers shows a classical motif with a subtle attention to the subtle movement and rhythm of the flora, with the help of paint, abstract vision and expressive handwriti...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Oil

It Was Always Part Of The Picture - Minimalist Abstract Textured Painting
It Was Always Part Of The Picture - Minimalist Abstract Textured Painting

It Was Always Part Of The Picture - Minimalist Abstract Textured Painting

Located in Manchester, GB

Henry Woolway, It Was Always Part Of The Picture, 2021 Acrylic on Canvas 122 x 92 cm (48 x 36.22 in) Artwork is set in a stained red wood frame with a 5mm shadow gap Hand-signed ...

Category

2010s Abstract Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Clarity 2
Clarity 2

Clarity 2

By Amy Van Winkle

Located in Santa Fe, NM

Encaustic on panel. It's simple; I create art because it makes me happy. I try not to overthink the process of what I’m painting and let my intuition be my guide. I love laying do...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Abstract Art

Materials

Encaustic

Guy Harloff Signed and Dated Large Abstract Painting
Guy Harloff Signed and Dated Large Abstract Painting

Guy Harloff Signed and Dated Large Abstract Painting

By Guy Harloff

Located in Roma, IT

Guy Harloff Signed and Dated Large Abstract Painting Wonderful Guy Harloff large abstract painting Titled “Composition” 1954 Mixed media on paper applied to masonite. Inscription G...

Category

Mid-20th Century Abstract Art

Materials

Paper, Pastel, Watercolor

The Bather Italy 1981 Roberto Nanut Bronze Nude Sculpture La Bagnante
The Bather Italy 1981 Roberto Nanut Bronze Nude Sculpture La Bagnante

The Bather Italy 1981 Roberto Nanut Bronze Nude Sculpture La Bagnante

Located in Brescia, IT

This is an engaging multiple artwork by the Italian artist Robert Nanut, a talented artist of 1980’. This is a multiple of numbered edition of 1.000 pieces. This artwork was made in 1980 but it can be considered new cause remained since now stored and packed in the Editor warehouse. The bronze sculpture is completed by the certificate of authenticity, there is the number assigned to the piece and the original signature of the author. Roberto Nanut...

Category

1980s Abstract Art

Materials

Bronze

Abstract art for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a wide variety of authentic Abstract art 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 art 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 Sumit Mehndiratta, Giorgio Lo Fermo, Francisco Nicolás, and Dadodu . 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 art, so small editions measuring 0.02 inches across are also available.