The Best Abstract Paintings - Top 10 Mid-Century Modern Masters Of Abstract Art

The Best Abstract Paintings - Top 10 Mid-Century Modern Masters Of Abstract Art

Discover the best abstract paintings of all time, as well as the artists that changed the course of art history.

While we set the scene, think about the most recognisable abstract paintings you have seen in a museum or art gallery. Can you describe what was most striking about the painting? Whether it was the colour palette or the shapes and movement of the piece, abstract art has carved itself as one of the most unique art styles due to it's ability to define emotions with little direction due to the nature of the art form. 

The work of abstract art is truly in the eyes of the beholder. But, by carefully inspecting the body of work, you can begin to unveil the artist's vision as intended and see the painting come to life.

 

Mark Rothko's exhibition at Tate Modern, London.

What is abstract art?

Abstract art is a visual art form defined as a non-representational practice which uses colours, shapes and gestural marks to conclude it's work.

The origins of abstract art can be traced back to the early expressionist painters such as Wassily Kandinsky and Hilma af Klint who were pioneers of the art form.

The abstract expressionist movement which began in the 1940's in New York City unveiled the brilliance of abstract artists Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko and more.

It is no surprise the most recognisable abstract artists and abstract paintings are listed in our guide, some of which lie in museums, galleries and private collections around the world today.

What Are The Best Abstract Paintings Of All Time?

Convergence by Jackson Pollock Abstract Painting 1952

Image courtesy of Jackson-Pollock.org

1. Convergence by Jackson Pollock, 1952.

Image courtesy of WassilyKandinsky.net

2. Composition VIII by Wassily Kandinsky, 1923

Image courtesy of WassilyKandinsky.net

3. Color Study. Squares with Concentric Circles by Wassily Kandinsky, 1913

 

Image courtesy of PietMondrian.org

4. Composition No.II by Piet Mondrian, 1920

Image courtesy of KazimirMalevich.org

 5. Black Square by Kazimir Malevich, 1915

Image courtesy of Jackson-Pollock.org

6. No. 5 by Jackson Pollock, 1948

Image courtesy of MOMA

7. Colors for a Large Wall by Ellsworth Kelly, 1951

  

Images courtesy of Joan-Miro.net

8. Triptych Bleu I, II, III by Joan Miró, 1961

Mark Rothko Untitled (Violet, Black, Orange, Yellow on White and Red) original abstract painting

Image courtesy of Guggenheim

9. Violet, Black, Orange, Yellow on White and Red by Mark Rothko, 1949

Image courtesy of Willem-de-Kooning.org

10. Excavation by Willem de Kooning, 1950

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the most famous abstract paintings in history.

These modern masters are the ultimate inspiration for any art admirer, and we love browsing their vast collection of works which formed the foundation of the abstract expressionist movement.

We'd love to hear your thoughts on the most famous abstract paintings. If you are looking to start a collection of affordable original abstract paintings, feel free to browse the collection of art by best-selling British artist Omar Obaid. Follow us on Instagram to find out more. 

 

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