Abstract composition refers to the arrangement and organization of the visual elements within an abstract artwork. It is the underlying structure that guides the viewer's eye and creates visual harmony or tension without relying on representational imagery.
According to the provided reference, the composition in abstract art is made in two interlinked phases. It begins with creating the elements and then progresses to the principles of abstract art.
The Two Phases of Abstract Composition
Understanding abstract composition involves recognizing its fundamental stages:
- Creating the Elements: Any abstract painting or another type of art starts with its elements. These are the basic building blocks the artist uses.
- Applying Principles: Once the elements are created or chosen, the artist applies the principles of abstract art to arrange them effectively. (While the reference mentions principles, it doesn't list them, focusing instead on the elements).
Key Elements of Abstract Art
The reference specifically lists the core elements of abstract art that are fundamental to its composition:
- Colour: The hues, saturation, and value used.
- Value: The lightness or darkness of a colour.
- Shape: Defined areas, which can be geometric or organic.
- Form: Three-dimensional shapes or the illusion of depth.
- Line: Marks that can be straight, curved, thick, thin, etc.
- Texture: The surface quality of the artwork, either actual or implied.
- Space: The area within and around the elements, including positive and negative space.
These elements are the artist's vocabulary. Abstract composition is the grammar and syntax used to arrange this vocabulary into a cohesive visual statement.
How Abstract Composition Works
Unlike representational art where composition might be based on arranging objects in a scene, abstract composition relies purely on the relationship between the visual elements themselves. An artist might use:
- Repetition of shapes or lines to create rhythm.
- Contrast in colour or value to create focal points.
- Balance (symmetrical or asymmetrical) to create stability or dynamism.
- Movement guided by lines or the arrangement of forms.
For example, a composition might use strong diagonal lines (element: line) in contrasting colours (element: colour, value) to create a sense of energy and movement.
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Colour | Hues, saturation, and lightness/darkness |
| Shape | Defined areas, geometric or organic |
| Line | Marks creating outlines or forms |
| Texture | Surface quality, real or implied |
| Space | Area around and within elements |
| Value | Lightness or darkness |
| Form | Three-dimensional quality or illusion of depth |
Ultimately, abstract composition is the deliberate process of arranging these fundamental elements using artistic principles to create a meaningful and impactful visual experience independent of external reality.
