There's a Story In Abstract Art

There's a Story In Abstract Art

I read a very inspiring and clarifying blog "The Magic of Storytelling Through Abstract Painting", by Suhail Mitoubsi. I often hear people say they don't understand abstract art, adding they don't know what is it about? Like landscape or portrait art there is a story to be told in abstract art. I share the key takeaways from the blog edited to offer takeaway's for the collector as well.

Key Takeaways for Artists

  1. Abstract Art Speaks a Visual Language: Just like written stories use words, abstract art uses colors, shapes and textures to convey narratives and emotions. This visual language allows artists to express ideas that might be difficult to put into words.
  2. Colors and Shapes Are Your Storytelling Tools: Each color and shape can evoke different emotions and meanings. For example, warm colors like red and yellow might express energy or joy, while cool blues could represent calmness or sadness. Experiment with these elements to craft your abstract stories.
  3. Emotion is the Heart of Abstract Storytelling: Creating and interpreting abstract art is all about connecting with emotions. As an artist, tap into your feelings to guide your creative process. As a viewer, pay attention to the emotions a piece evokes in you – that’s part of the story.
  4. Everyone Can Be a Storyteller and Interpreter: You don’t need to be a professional artist to engage in storytelling through abstract painting. Whether you’re creating or viewing, your personal experiences and emotions play a crucial role in the narrative. There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to tell or understand these stories.
  5. Engage Actively with Abstract Art: To deepen your appreciation, try “reading” abstract compositions by breaking down their elements and considering their emotional impact. Or, create your own abstract narrative by expressing a feeling through color's and shapes. The more you engage, the richer your abstract art experience will become.

Key Takeaways for Collectors

  1. Abstract Art Speaks a Visual Language: Just like written stories use words, abstract art uses colors, shapes and textures to convey narratives and emotions. Collect art that speaks to you by sparking an emotion or reaction.
  2. Colors and Shapes Are Storytelling Tools: Each color and shape can evoke different emotions and meanings. For example, warm colors like red and yellow might express energy or joy, while cool blues could represent calmness or sadness. Take your time as you move through an art collection. Think less about how the piece will fit in a space and more about how you will feel with the piece in the space over time.
  3. Emotion is the Heart of Abstract Storytelling: Creating and interpreting abstract art is all about connecting with emotions.  As a viewer, pay attention to the emotions a piece evokes in you – that’s part of the story.
  4. Everyone Can Be a Storyteller and Interpreter: You don’t need to be a professional artist understand abstract painting. Whether you’re creating or viewing, your personal experiences and emotions play a crucial role in the narrative. There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to tell or understand these stories.
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