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Dynamic Suprematism 1915 or 1916 by Kazimir Malevich
Kazimir Malevich - Non-Objective Abstract Painting - "Dynamic Suprematism" -1915 or 1916

What is Abstract Art?

Whether you love it or hate it, abstract art is a defining and revolutionary art form in the modern era.  It fostered a sense of freedom and facilitated a collective shift in the way society approached creativity and self-expression. So what is abstract art you ask?  Abstract art emerged in the early 1900s as a new and strange style within the modern art movement.  It marked a significant departure from the traditional art forms that sought to represent the world as it appeared.  Instead, painters and sculptors explored a new way of creating art that aimed to depart from reality and separate something from its original subject – thus giving birth to abstract art.

 

This may sound like a simple idea, but it was very controversial at the time.   It was so shocking that many first refused to accept it as art at first, but reluctantly got convinced.  Ever since its inception, there has been a continued interest in abstract art because of its profound ability to inspire our curiosity.  For artist and viewer alike, there is something so very poetic in abstract art in that it is completely unique and open-ended, allowing for mixed interpretation and amazing variety of personal meaning for each person.

Why Was Abstract Art Created?

The 20th century brought about tremendous changes that had a profound impact on society and culture.  By observing these changes it becomes apparent that abstract art was a natural expression of the times and the resulting effect that the machine age and technology had on society.  Advancements in technology, such as the widespread use of electricity, the invention of the camera, the telephone, and radio, transformed the way people lived and perceived the world.  Simultaneously, the machine age propelled progress in modes of transportation, offering unprecedented mobility via railroads, automobiles, boats, and planes.  These new global advancements opened up a progressive era of prosperity all while the potential of dystopian World Wars loomed on the horizon.

 

“Abstract art has come into being as a necessary expression of the feelings and thoughts of our age; it has added new dimensions to creative painting.”  ~ Leonard Brooks

 

The world changed a lot, and very quickly.  Naturally, culture and art changed too.  The rapid pace of progress during this era both exhilarated and unsettled individuals.  On one hand, the world witnessed a new era of prosperity and endless possibilities.  On the other hand, the looming threats of two devastating World Wars created a sense of uncertainty and anxiety.  It was amidst these contrasting emotions and shifting societal norms that abstract art found its voice.  Not only that but as society as a whole became less restrictive and more open, the very idea that art could be rebellious, individualistic, and imaginative was better able to be received among the critics and collectors.

Mark Rothko - Abstract Painting - "No. 21 (Red, Brown, Black, and Orange)"
Mark Rothko - Expressionism, Color Field Abstract Painting - "No. 21 (Red, Brown, Black, and Orange)"

Abstract Art Styles Exists On A Spectrum

Abstract art was first created with indifference and sometimes blatant rejection to how tradition defined art. It was born from an experiment and a need to explore in new creative ways. Thus, it only makes sense that abstraction is not restricted or confined by a concrete set of rules – it can vary on a spectrum from very slight to completely non-objective.

Wikipedia states: “Abstraction indicates a departure from reality in depiction of imagery in art. This departure from accurate representation can be slight, partial, or complete.”

 

“Abstraction allows man to see with his mind what he cannot physically see with his eyes… Abstract art enables the artist to perceive beyond the tangible, to extract the infinite out of the finite. It is the emancipation of the mind. It is an explosion into unknown areas.” ~ Arshile Gorky

 

It is a common misconception to think that all abstract art does not have a subject matter –  that it is made up of shapes, color, and form that represent nothing of the real world.  This type of art is known as non-representational art or non-objective art (developed by Wassily Kandinsky and Kazimir Malevich), and while it is clearly a type of abstract art, the non-objective art style does not define the entirety of abstract art.  After all, the earliest known abstract art paintings were known to be done in the Cubism style.  Developed by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braques, these artists reduced and fragmented a realistic subject into strange forms and basic geometric shapes.  Often they would use a figure or portrait of an actual person that then goes through an abstraction process.  So within the spectrum of abstract art are a range of creative styles that are representational or expressive of their natural surroundings. This includes themes or subjects that are related to abstract nature art, or abstracted objects, landscapes, figures, cityscapes, and much more.

Pablo Picasso - Abstract Painting - "Girl With Mandolin" -1910
Pablo Picasso - Cubism Abstract Painting - "Girl With Mandolin" -1910

Over the years abstract art has evolved and been defined differently per the individual.  For some artists such as Jackson Pollock, abstract art is the result of enjoying the action of painting with grand gestural movements that are in touch with the way the paint drips onto the canvas.  Other artists who were influenced by Pollock, such as Jaison Cianelli, combined the idea of action painting with abstracting a subject such as a landscape.

 

“With abstract art I’m not trying to create a masterpiece, I’m trying to master peace.” ~ Jaison Cianelli

 

Today abstract art is still a popular style for creating art, and it’s not always painted with a brush and canvas.  It’s important to remember photography or digital art can be abstract, as well as installation art and sculptures. Contemporary art today utilizes the abstraction process in any number of ways, with a wide range of styles that could be related to inner emotions, action painting, and abstracted subjects such as landscapes, water scenes, animals, famous figures, and more.

Bursting Sun Abstract Landscape Painting by Jaison Cianelli.
Jaison Cianelli - Expressionism Abstract Landscape Painting - "Bursting Sun" -2009

Abstract Artists Are Very Skilled In Their Own Way

Just about anyone can fill a canvas with paint, so in a way creating abstract artwork is easy right? Well, not exactly. The style and techniques of abstract art can vary from very simple to extremely hard, but distinguishing oneself in the art world by producing high-quality and unique abstract artworks is very hard. It’s also a common fallacy that abstract art is made by artists who can’t draw and have no academic training. Historically speaking, the original abstract artists were all trained in ancient traditions and could easily paint like classical artists, they just chose not to. Even today, many, if not all, professional abstract artists start out in realism creating compositions with a high degree of skill. There are also new unbelievable talents in the use of combining many other mediums besides paint.  Abstract art is created with literally anything on hand with an array of technologies at the artist’s disposal.  For example fabric, recycled waste, 3D printed items, written words, digital art, photographs, and natural material are all acceptable mediums in a visual abstract art piece.

 

“Abstraction allows man to see with his mind what he cannot physically see with his eyes… Abstract art enables the artist to perceive beyond the tangible, to extract the infinite out of the finite. It is the emancipation of the mind. It is an explosion into unknown areas.” ~ Arshile Gorky

 

Not always, but sometimes, abstract art can look like very simple works of art that anybody can accomplish.  So we are often left with the question of what makes the art special.  For example some say that even a child could create the large color field paintings by Mark Rothko.  And while Rothko’s paintings continue to increase in incredible value today, you have to remember that these are historical pieces that mark a great period in art history.  Rothko believed his fields of color were spiritual planes that could tap into our most basic human emotions.  Whether you agree or not, pioneering a style of art that represents a new idea or theory is not easy and not many will ever succeed at it.  Not only that but some of Rothko’s paintings are very large, so they are more of an experience much like Pollock’s work, where the size of the art creates a presence that has to be felt in person to be truly appreciated.

Jackson Pollock - Abstract Expressionism - Action Painting
Jackson Pollock - Abstract Expressionism - Action Painting
Abstract Paintings By Mark Rothko - Museum Collection
Expressionism, Color Field Abstract Paintings By Mark Rothko - Museum Collection

Abstract Art Creates A Variety Of Feelings

Many people collect abstract art as decoration but also because they feel a connection to the overall emotions and energy that the art gives off. The best abstract artwork can literally change a living space and create a more beautiful atmosphere.  The wonder of abstract art is that anyone can take what they see and interpret it however they want.  And over time there is a very dynamic relationship with the art because of its open and free nature. This dynamic relationship gives life to the art and allows people to enjoy and receive it very differently, which is quite a unique characteristic.

 

“It [abstract art] should be enjoyed just as music is enjoyed after a while you may like it or you may not.” ~ Jackson Pollock

 

Abstract art is really a creative and evolving art style that resonated with new ideas both in the past and today.  There are many varieties within it that can be appreciated in different ways since it is so free.  It is also always changing with new technological advancements and ideas of expression.  So from subject matter to how it is created, abstract art lives on a spectrum of interpretation of what it was and what it will be.

Modern Abstract Art - Abstract Painting - Large Tall Abstract Wall Art Art For Sale
Jaison Cianelli - Expressionism, Digital Mixed Media Abstract Art - "A Heart So Big"

Examples Of Abstract Art

Good abstract art can capture your imagination and take you on a viewing journey.  Abstract art should ultimately evoke something inside you. Here are large abstract art canvas paintings that are sure to please the senses.  These are contemporary abstract art pieces inspired by either landscapes, cityscapes, flowers, rocks, and other natural formations.

Large Abstract Painting Wall Art - Large Abstract Art For Sale
"Essence" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Modern Abstract Art -Large Wall Art Canvas - Paintings For Sale - Abstract Wall Art Print
"Elegant Surprise" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Large Abstract Painting Wall Art - Large Abstract Art For Sale
Sea Gold" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Abstract Landscape Painting For Sale - Large Abstract Canvas Art
"Abstract Landscape Sunny" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Large Canvas Wall Art Abstract Painting For Sale
"Efflorescence" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Abstract Landscape Painting For Sale - Large Abstract Canvas Art
"Abstract Landscape Clearing" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Large Abstract Painting - Oversized Big Wall Art Painting
"A Heart So Big" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Large Abstract Flower Art Painting - Oversized Big Abstract Art For Sale
"Somebody's Smiling" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Contemporary Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Cityscape Painting - Large Abstract Wall Art Art For Sale - Boston Harbor
"Boston Harbor Night Vibe" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art
Large Canvas Wall Art Abstract Painting For Sale
"Passion" Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Wall Art

Jaison Cianelli with wife at art show in Artist Haven Gallery.

About The "Bursting Sun" Painting

I created this painting in 2009 when I was displaying my art at shows and galleries. The whole idea of creating this abstract landscape painting was to be an expressive channel and to take part in the creative process of sharing an inner joyful feeling. I believe I used to say it’s more of an inner space than an actual place. The golden highlights, rich colors, and expressive texture brought a new emotion to my painting style. Harnessing the energy of the sun was part of my goal as well as expressing an appreciation of life and creation.

Over the years I’ve had many offers for Busting Sun. It became one of the few landscape paintings I did not want to sell. But other than self gratification, there really is no point to art if it is not shared, so eventually it will be passed on or sold to somebody.

Bursting Sun Abstract Landscape Painting by Jaison Cianelli. Gold framed canvas wall art.

Expressing With Poured-On Paint Texture

Pouring latex paint onto the canvas to build layer after layer was an expressive process free from restraint. There is medium speed string-like texture throughout the entire canvas.  And there is a slow, thickly applied paint texture for the land, which if I can recall correctly was done with a piping bag.  And then there is quickly flung-on paint texture for the energy of the sun and reflections in the water.

Transitioning colors were added over areas and also removed, leaving behind lower lying areas of unique darker tones and a highlight on the higher texture.  What a joy it was when I added gold paint here and there, blending it throughout and wiping it out to achieve a hidden glow.

Pouring latex paint with paint brush handle.
Bursting-Sun-Abstract-Landscape-Painting-Close-Detail-Image-3
Bursting-Sun-Abstract-Landscape-Painting-Close-Detail-Image-1
Bursting-Sun-Abstract-Landscape-Painting-Close-Detail-Image-2

All of my acrylic paintings take shape a little bit on their own. Sure, many start with a plan, some more specific than others, but my favorite ones have something in them that is accidental. This accidental something is the magic that can steer a painting, it can’t be duplicated, and it is something you go with which makes it all the more special. Bob Ross was not joking when he called them “happy accidents.”

If you enjoy this painting feel free to let me know. There is also a chance I am willing to sell this painting after all these year.  If you are interested in wall art prints click the link below and you can choose from a variety of print options and sizes. For reference, the original painting was 30″ x 20″ on gallery wrapped canvas with a gloss varnish.

Bursting Sun Abstract Landscape Painting by Jaison Cianelli. Gallery canvas wall art above living room sofa.

Watercolor painting has a unique charm that captures the essence of the subject in a fluid and expressive way. Seascape painting, with its dynamic waves and serene horizons, provides the perfect canvas to explore the magic of watercolors. In this blog post, we will delve into a step-by-step loose watercolor seascape demonstration, accompanied by a material list and valuable tips for painting expressively.

Abstract Landscape Tutorial - Loose Watercolor Seascape

Loose Watercolor Painting Demonstration - Abstract Seascape

Music credit: Purple Planet

Recommended Materials List

Before diving into the creative process, let’s ensure you have all the necessary tools at your disposal:

1. Watercolor Paper: Choose a high-quality, heavy-weight watercolor paper that can handle wet-on-wet techniques without warping.
2. Watercolor Paints: Opt for a basic palette of primary and secondary colors, allowing for mixing and blending.
3. Brushes: Have a variety of brushes on hand, including round brushes for fine details and larger brushes for washes.
4. Water Containers: Two clean water containers are essential—one for rinsing your brushes and another for mixing watercolors.
5. Paper Towels: Keep paper towels handy to blot excess water and paint.
6. Masking Tape or Frisket: Use these to preserve white areas or create highlights.
7. Palette: A mixing palette with wells for different colors will aid in blending and creating the desired shades.
8. Pencil and Eraser: Sketch the basic composition lightly and use an eraser to make any adjustments.

Step-by-Step Loose Watercolor Seascape Demo

Step 1: Find a reference that excites you
Begin by finding a photo reference that speaks to you. It can be from your own photos, something you discover browsing the Internet, or perhaps you enjoy going outdoors and painting a scene from life. Lightly sketch the horizon line and any major elements like rocks or boats. Keep the sketch minimal, as you’re aiming for an expressive piece.

Step 2: Wet-on-Wet Background
Wet the paper with clean water, using a large brush. Then, drop in soft washes of blue and green for the sky and sea. Let the colors blend and interact on the wet surface.

Step 3: Building Depth
Once the background is dry, start adding darker tones to the sea to create depth. Use a mix of blues, purples, and greens. Allow the colors to mingle on the paper for a natural feel.

Step 4: Waves and Movement
Using a slightly dry brush, add upward strokes of white for the waves’ crests. Don’t overthink—let the strokes be loose and spontaneous. Sprinkle a pinch of salt onto the wet areas to create interesting textures. Let the salt work its magic as the paint dries.

Step 5: Foreground Elements
Paint any rocks, cliffs, or boats in the foreground. Remember, the goal is to capture the essence, so let your brushstrokes be free and lively. Add shadows and highlights for dimension.

Step 6: Final Details
With a smaller brush, refine details like reflections on the water, ripples, and finer wave lines. Add splatters by tapping a loaded brush against your hand for a splashed water effect.

Tips for Painting Expressively

1. Embrace Imperfections: Allow paint to flow and blend naturally. Don’t worry about perfect lines or flawless color transitions. Imperfections can add character.

2. Loosen Up: Be confident in your brushstrokes. Use your whole arm to create sweeping, bold movements rather than solely relying on your wrist.

3. Color Harmonies: Experiment with analogous or complementary color schemes. Let the colors interact and mix on the paper for a vibrant and lively result.

4. Negative Space: Utilize negative space to emphasize your focal point. Leaving some areas untouched can enhance the overall impact of your painting.

5. Expressive Brushwork: Vary your brushstrokes—thick and thin, soft and sharp. This adds energy and movement to your painting.

6. Limit Detail: Avoid excessive detailing, especially in the background. Focus on capturing the essence of the scene rather than replicating every element.

7. Bold Highlights: Don’t shy away from bold highlights. They can infuse your painting with drama and contrast.

8. Layering Techniques: Layering transparent washes can create a sense of depth. Let each layer dry before adding the next.

9. Let Go of Control: Expressive watercolor painting is about embracing unpredictability. Allow the water and pigments to interact freely.

Conclusion

Creating a loose watercolor seascape is an invigorating journey that allows you to express the beauty of the ocean in your own unique style. Remember, the key is to enjoy the process, let go of perfectionism, and allow the fluidity of watercolors to work their enchanting magic. With the right materials and a willingness to paint expressively, you’ll be able to capture the essence of the sea in a way that is both captivating and deeply personal.

Written by: Robert Joyner

Robert Joyner is a full-time artist and instructor from Goochland, Virginia. He specializes in blending quality fundamentals with unconventional painting techniques. Robert has a home studio where he creates art and online teaching courses.

Although Robert strongly believes in developing solid fundamentals his approach is typically very random. He likes to put himself in challenging positions that require him to rely on the basics to pull it off. So, instead of creating predictable art he opts to catch lightning in a bottle. This is what excites him!

If you would like to learn how to paint loose watercolors, and abstract style art with acrylic and mixed media, be sure to visit his websites below.

A Stress Free State Of Mind

There is a silence in the early morning and late at night. It empowers your creative mind to step into the drivers seat without doubt or anxiety. It’s there naturally before sleep and when awakened, and can exist throughout your normal daily activities if you let it. Science calls this silence the theta state. Brain waves during theta state are free flowing and occur without censorship or guilt. When performing a task in the theta state you are mentally disengaged. Actions are automatic and intuitive, giving you a stress-free state and allowing you to focus and imagine with ease.

Appreciating Abstract Art

Technology and the modern industrial world is embedded into our society and operates at a busy pace. There is not much that we can do to escape it. We tend to mentally engage in the processes of our lives all too often without ever letting the relaxed state of mind take its course. This practice is actually a destroyer of a precious balance with the creative mind and the theta state.

 

Many artists reacted to our modern society by creating abstract art in the intuitive theta state, consciously or unconsciously. And understanding this very basic cultural reaction will give you a greater appreciation for abstract art and the artist. The action of painting for an intuitive abstract artist is a natural creative process that does not involve a great deal of thought. By not “trying” and just “doing” the art becomes the experience, the experience becomes the art.

 

In this sense abstract paintings are reminding us that it is healthy to mentally disengage, and even much needed in our current world. The artwork and the artist say without words that we should be free to express and explore our creativity without defining and categorizing things all the time.

Contemporary Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Painting - Large Abstract Wall Art Art For Sale
"Mind Expansion" Abstract Art by Jaison Cianelli

Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "Cosmic Consciousness"

Modern Wall Art For Living Room

We all know that the living room is the most popular room for entertaining, talking, reading, or watching television. Not only will you spend most of your time there but it’s usually the largest room in the home. The living room is the perfect space to showcase a large modern wall art painting that you can enjoy for a long time to come.

 

You can hang paintings above a sofa, between a sitting area, or above a sideboard. When matching the decor you will want to visually connect the artwork to the living room so that it is extra cozy. You also want to choose the appropriate size and spacing to hang it correctly and make it more inviting and balanced in your space.

Hanging At The Correct Height

57 inches is the average eye height, and this is usually a good standard height to use when hanging art throughout the home. This means the center of the artwork is 57 inches from the ground, which helps to align the art at eye level and create balance and harmony.

 

But when hanging large modern wall art above a sofa, bed, or sideboard, you may have to deviate from the 57 inch rule. The reason being, the furniture is of varying height and you also want the art to be part of the furniture.

 

It is important to hang your large artwork low enough so it is visually connected to the furniture, but not floating high above it. And that means the bottom of your artwork or frame should hang 8” to 10” above the back of the sofa or height of the sideboard.

Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "Passion"
Modern Abstract Wall Art Canvas Painting - Art For Living Room Hallway Sideboard
Modern Wall Art For Living Room Above Sideboard - "Whimsical"
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "Elegant Surprise"
Modern Abstract Wall Art Canvas Painting - Art For Living Room Hallway Sideboard
Modern Wall Art For Living Room Above Sideboard - "Aloft In Paradise"
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "On The Rocks"

Appropriate Size

When deciding upon the size, a good rule of thumb is that the wall art should NOT be larger than the furniture because this will overwhelm it and throw the overall feel off balance. In general, a good size is about 2/3 the length of the piece of furniture.

 

Wide format panoramic size paintings or prints are perfect when hanging above a sofa or bed. When hanging canvas art between chairs you will most likely want to choose square art or a tall piece so that the chairs frame the artwork and compliment it nicely.

Modern Abstract Wall Art Canvas Painting - Art For Living Room Hallway Sideboard
Modern Wall Art For Living Room Above Sideboard - "Cosmic Consciousness"
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "Boston Harbor Night Vibe"
Modern Abstract Wall Art Canvas Painting - Art For Living Room Hallway
Modern Wall Art For Living Room Above Bench - "Romance"
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "In The Light Of Each Other"
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "Warm Embrace"

Spacing Out A Modern 3 Piece Gallery Wall Set

Hanging canvas art as a 2 or 3 piece wall art set can add a bold and elegant touch to your living room.  With the addition of framing the sets you create even more visual grid lines and more attention to the art. Also, by combining smaller pieces together you are creating the feel of a large artwork without having to pay the extra expense of oversized shipping costs.

 

When hanging this grouping of art, you should leave 2” to 5” between each frame for a balanced look. Make sure to be exact in your spacing. It is also important to hang each canvas or framed print perfectly level. Any deviation will make add a degree of sloppiness you really don’t want. Use a ruler to measure from the ceiling or floor and consider a laser leveler to help you align everything straight.

Modern Wall Art For Living Room - Large Canvas Painting
Modern Wall Art For Living Room - "Essence"

Modern Wall Art Above Bed

The same general rules apply when hanging wall art above the bed. The only main difference is the theme or energy of the artwork you are choosing. A bedroom is a place of sleep and relaxation, so typically softer and gentler abstract themes and colors are desired.  Usually, wide panoramic wall art is best to match the width of the bed.

Wall Art Above Bed - Above Bed Art
Wall Art Above Bed - "Cascade In Blue"
Wall Art Above Bed - Above Bed Art
Wall Art Above Bed - "Freedom"
Wall Art Above Bed - Above Bed Art
Wall Art Above Bed - "Secret Garden"
Wall Art Above Bed - Above Bed Art
Wall Art Above Bed - "Abstract Landscape Floating"

Some of the best modern abstract wall art is able to evoke emotions and capture your attention, all while being able to harmonize nicely with modern interior decor. These large contemporary abstract art pieces do just that. So if you get excited over large abstract wall art you’ve come to the right place. Here is a growing list of brand new modern abstract canvas art by Jaison Cianelli.

Modern Abstract Art -Large Wall Art Canvas - Paintings For Sale - Abstract Wall Art Print
"Elegant Surprise" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Gallery Canvas Print
Modern Abstract Art -Large Wall Art Canvas - Paintings For Sale - Abstract Wall Art Print
"Acclimated Bliss" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Framed Canvas Print
Modern Abstract Art -Large Wall Art Canvas - Paintings For Sale - Abstract Wall Art Print
"Softly Cerulean" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Gallery Canvas Print
Modern Abstract Art - Abstract Landscape - Heaven Abstract Art
"Drop Of Heaven" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Framed Canvas Print
Modern Abstract Art -Large Wall Art Canvas - Paintings For Sale - Abstract Wall Art Print
"On The Rocks" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Framed Canvas Print
Abstract Wall Art - Contemporary Abstract Painting For Sale - Modern Wall Art Cosmic Consciousness
"Cosmic Consciousnesse" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Gallery Canvas Print
Contemporary Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Cityscape Painting - Large Abstract Wall Art Art For Sale - Boston Harbor
"Boston Harbor Night Vibe" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Gallery Canvas Print
Contemporary Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Painting - Large Abstract Wall Art Art For Sale
"Mind Expansion" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Gallery Canvas Print
Abstract Landscape Painting For Sale - Large Abstract Canvas Art
"Abstract Landscape Sunny" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Framed Canvas Print
Contemporary Abstract Art - Modern Abstract Painting - Large Abstract Wall Art Art For Sale
"Something Different" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Framed Canvas Print
Large Abstract Seascape Painting Wall Art - Large Abstract Art For Sale
"Potter Pond" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Gallery Canvas Print
Large Abstract Painting For Sale - Modern Abstract Art Wide Contemporary Abstract Art
"Elixir" - Modern Abstract Wall Art, Framed Canvas Print

Claude Monet - Impressionism - "Mueles"- 1890
Claude Monet - Impressionism - "Mueles"- 1890

Modern Art

Let us start with modern art.  Modern art is a classification of an art period that includes artwork produced during the period extending roughly from the 1860s to the 1970s. 

It’s important to note that within the modern art period many experimental and expressive styles exist.

The modern art period was started by artists that had an experimental spirit for expressing new ideas and methods.  They explored beyond traditional techniques and pushed the boundaries of art. 

Impressionist Claude Monet and post-impressionist Vincent van Gogh were key figures. 

According to art scholars and historians the modern art movement ended around the 1970s when the term postmodern started to be used and pop art became the new thing. 

However, there is a grey area here because in general most people will use the term to describe art being created today if it has the same characteristics of new experimental expression.  And this makes sense because the word modern means “relating to the present or recent times as opposed to the remote past.”

Abstract Art

And that brings us to abstract art.  You might be thinking, what is abstract art?  And, is abstract art modern art?

Abstraction is a painting style classified within the modern art movement in the early 1900s. So yes, it is a type of modern art.  Abstract was a truly revolutionary style and a way for artists to create a departure from reality.

Wikipedia states: “Abstraction indicates a departure from reality in depiction of imagery in art. This departure from accurate representation can be slight, partial, or complete.”

Within the abstract style are many different spectrums and classifications of abstraction.

The earliest known abstract style was Cubism which started in 1908 and was developed by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braques. This abstract technique reduced the forms into basic geometric shapes.

Eventually, the abstract art style included art that did not try to represent reality at all, and this was called non-objective abstract painting. Russian artist Wassily Kandinsky is generally credited with creating the first purely non-objective abstract painting in 1910.

And in America, abstract art was not known until 1940 when the expressionist style of Jackson Pollock caught the eyes of the world.

And because abstract art is a style of painting and not a classification of an art period, abstract paintings are still being created today.

Wassily Kandinsky - Abstract Art - Untitled - First Abstract Watercolor -1910
Wassily Kandinsky - Abstract Art - Untitled - First Abstract Watercolor -1910
Wassily Kandinsky - Abstract Art - Black Grid, "Schwarzer Raster" -1922
Wassily Kandinsky - Abstract Art - Black Grid, "Schwarzer Raster" -1922
Jackson Pollock - Abstract Painting - Number 31 - 1950
Jackson Pollock - Abstract Expressionism Painting - Number 31 - 1950
Pablo Picasso - Abstract Painting - "Les Demoiselles D'Avignon" -1907
Pablo Picasso - Abstract Painting - "Les Demoiselles D'Avignon" -1907
Pablo Picasso - Abstract Painting - "Girl With Mandolin" -1910
Pablo Picasso - Cubism Abstract Painting - "Girl With Mandolin" -1910

Contemporary Art

Finally, that brings us to the current day.  Right now, we use the term contemporary art to define art as being created in our lifetime or in the current present moment.

So any artwork being created right now is technically contemporary no matter what the style.

But what has happened is that people use contemporary art to describe unique art created in new and different ways from the 1970s until now.

It is important to know that contemporary art refers to all art produced today utilizing the many technological advances – and that includes paintings, digital art, sculpture, photography, installation, performance, and video art.

Andy Warhols - Campbells Soup Can's Painting - 1962
Andy Warhols - Campbells Soup Can's Painting - 1962
Damien Hirst - Spot Painting
Damien Hirst - Spot Painting

The difference between framed vs. unframed canvas is very slight. But deciding which type you need for your interior decor makes all the difference towards creating cohesiveness and beauty in your space.

What is Unframed Canvas?

Are you wondering what is a canvas print without frame? Usually the term “unframed canvas” is used to describe artwork that is not set into a frame. A frameless canvas wall art print or painting can still be hung without a frame because the canvas is stretched and stapled onto wooden bars that create a simple internal frame. Another way to describe this type of minimalist canvas artwork is a “gallery canvas” or “gallery wrapped canvas.”

In this article we are referring to this type of canvas.  Not often, but sometimes unframed canvas is a term used to describe canvas that is not mounted to stretcher bars at all, meaning it is literally just canvas art that comes rolled in a tube. This type of canvas will need to be stretched later on.

Framed Vs Unframed Canvas

Unframed Canvas Wall Art

Unframed canvas wall art prints are very popular.  The modern minimalist look of a frameless canvas wall art works especially well with today’s contemporary furniture and overall interior setting.  They are also versatile because they can adapt to any room decor style.

If you plan to hang your canvas unframed then it is important that the artwork is a gallery wrap canvas because it will come stretched onto 1.5″ thick stretcher bars that are strong enough to be hung without the support of a frame. The chunkier proportions of  a gallery wrap also compliment the canvas artwork as a whole, giving it a little more visual strength, something you need since there is no border frame.

On a gallery wrapped canvas you will want the artwork carried onto the sides or a black colored border. This will also help create a completed look to the art.  Take a look at the examples below to see the difference in unframed canvas art.

Framed Canvas Wall Art

A framed canvas wall art prints are lovely when done correctly.  Framed canvas art can feel more completed and cohesive in a well appointed setting.  Framed canvas works best when it matches and harmonizes with interior decoration. The frame itself can complement and highlight the quality of artwork.

If you decide to frame modern canvas art we prefer floater frames. They are simple and provide an understated elegance to the art.   They are available in gold, black, or silver.

It should be noted something magical and complimentary happens when the shimmer of a gold or silver frame matches the metal in the interior space as well as the shimmer in the artwork. All the elements come together so perfectly!

If you choose a more traditional frame instead of the floater frame, then you can order the canvas art on the thinner 5/8” stretcher bars. This will help reduce cost and give you more framing options.  A more classically decorative frame works well with more traditional art, however it is possible pull off using a more modern piece of art if the artwork has similar texture, patterns, or forms.  Take a look at the examples below to see the difference in framed canvas art.

Elegant Decor and Modern Style

In your attempts to achieving a beautifully decorated space, sometimes the choice to frame canvas art is simple if you think in terms of cohesiveness and size. Generally speaking smaller artwork looks better framed, and matching that frame to your decor does wonders to complete the look.

For example, a smaller canvas art sitting above an end table will fit in perfectly when framed especially when the frame matches the material of the table. It ties together so nicely!

On the other hand, a large modern abstract art as big as a couch, doesn’t necessarily require the frame. The large oversized canvas gives an understated elegant statement because of the larger proportionate size of the art.

The Difference Between Framed and Unframed Canvas Art - Framed Sample Canvas Art
Framed Canvas Art "Drop Of Heaven" by Jaison Cianelli.
The Difference Between Framed and Unframed Canvas Art - Unframed Sample Canvas Art
Unframed Canvas Art "Becoming" by Jaison Cianelli.

Framed Canvas Wall Art Sets

Hanging canvas art as a 2 or 3 piece wall art set can add a bold and elegant touch to your home. With the addition of framing the sets you create even more visual grid lines and more attention to the art.

You will also notice your eye is drawn to the framed canvas that is dark and includes a contrasting white mat. This may or may not be something you desire.  A white frame is more subtle and will allow for the set to be a little less attention grabbing.

Framed Canvas Art-Contemporary Abstract Art Gallery Wall 2 Piece Set
2 Piece Framed Canvas Art "Abstract Landscape Floating" by Jaison Cianelli.
Framed Canvas Art-Contemporary Abstract Art Gallery Wall 3 Piece Set
3 Piece Framed Canvas Art "Essence" by Jaison Cianelli.

Unframed Canvas Wall Art Sets

If you desire the canvas art set to be softer on the eyes you can always hang the canvas unframed.  Many times unframed canvas sets are already eye catching enough especially if the artwork has a lot of color and movement.  So in many applications hanging them unframed is just fine and gives a little bit more of an understated look that balances out the feel of the space.

Unframed Canvas Art-Contemporary Abstract Art Gallery Wall 3 Piece Set
3 Piece Unframed Canvas Art "Essence" by Jaison Cianelli.