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Abstract Art vs. Realism: Which Is Right for You?

According to PR Newswire, online Auction House sales have increased 720% from 2020 to 2022. Evidently, people are becoming more and more interested in art. When it comes to creating art in an online painting class for adults, it can be hard to decide between abstract and realistic art. Both styles have unique characteristics and offer something different to the aspiring painter. Here’s what to consider when determining whether an abstract or realistic art style is better for you.

What Is Abstract Art?

Abstract art doesn’t represent any particular object or scene. It emphasizes color, shape, line, and form rather than any specific subject matter. If you’re looking for something creative but not too structured, abstract art could be the right style for you. It can be a great way to express yourself and create something meaningful.

What Is Realism?

Realism, on the other hand, is a style of art focusing on accurate depictions of objects and scenes from the real world. If you’re looking for something more structured, realistic art could be the route to take. It’s great for those who want to challenge themselves and create something that looks professionally painted.

What Artist Do You Admire?

Are there particular artists you admire and wish to emulate? Someone like Michelangelo was one of the most famous artists to practice realism, while Mark Rothko was an incredible abstract artist. If you find yourself drawn more towards one style than the other, this can help you decide what to paint.

Do You Like Making People Guess?

While you still have flexibility in subject matter with realism, it’s usually way more straightforward than abstraction. Abstract art, on the other hand, can be quite ambiguous and open-ended. If you like making people guess what you’ve created, abstract art could be the right style for you.

What Do You Want to Achieve?

Are you looking to create something that will be admired and hung on someone’s wall? Do you consider an online painting class for adults a hobby or something you hope will lead to a career? These are important questions to ask yourself when deciding your painting goals. If you’re looking to become a professional artist, keep an eye on current trends to determine which style will help you reach a wider audience.

No matter which art style you choose, you can express yourself and create something meaningful. If you’re looking for a creative outlet, enroll in an online painting class for adults at the Yarnell School of Fine Art today.