define representational art

Representational Art – The Development of Representational Artworks

Representational art, which is sometimes known as Figurative art, refers to paintings, sculptures, and other art forms that have clearly been copied from real objects. Portraying something that physically exists in reality, such as a landscape, a still life, or a portrait, Representational artworks are instantly recognizable once they are created. As it is one of the most identifiable genres of art, Representational art has proved popular with the masses.

Table of Contents

• 1 A History of Representational Art
• 2 What Is Representational Art?
• 3.1 Non-Representational Art Examples
• 4.1 Representational Abstract Art
• 5.1 Paul Cézanne: Four Apples (1881)
• 5.2 Joaquín Sorolla: Valencian Fishermen (1895)
• 5.3 Sir Stanley Spencer: Turkeys (1925)
• 5.4 Algernon Newton: The Surrey Canal, Camberwell (1935)
• 6.1 A Guideline of Artistic Merit
• 6.2 A Basis for All Visual Art
• 6.3 Makes Art More Accessible to the Public

A History of Representational Art

Existing as art that represents something, Representational art is typically made up of subject matters that are easily recognized by viewers. Some of the earliest examples of Representational art were cave paintings, which date back about 40,000 years ago, and the Paleolithic figurine known as The Venus of Willendorf said to be created about 25,000 years ago.

Thus, this form of art is said to be one of the oldest in existence, as a variety of examples can be traced from different genres that existed at separate times.

Most ancient art, which dates back to the Stone Age between 2,000,000 and 10,000 B.C.E., was said to be representational. The sculptures and paintings produced in this era were often modeled off of real people, idealized gods, or scenes from nature until the direction of representation turned to focus mainly on religious subjects during the Middle Ages in Europe.

Some of the most beautiful Representational art examples were created during the Renaissance by important artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, who produced exceptionally realistic paintings and sculptures. At this time of art history, artists were typically commissioned to paint portraits of royalty, meaning that the majority of the artworks in existence displayed depictions of real people.

Throughout history, the majority of the paintings, drawings, and sculptures that have been made are said to be forms of Representational art, as this genre represents one of the largest collections of artworks to ever be created.

Despite going through many phases throughout art history, Representational art has retained the principle of presenting the viewer with distinct and obvious subject matter . This essentially demonstrates that it is one of the most reliable art forms to exist.

What Is Representational Art?

An appropriate Representational art definition would be artworks, in particular paintings and sculptures, that have been created by accurately copying real object sources. In doing so, the artworks that are produced represent something with strong visual references to reality, as they represent something very specific. Even when artworks were symbolic or non-figurative in nature, they were still usually representing something, which made them a form of Representational art.

Representational artworks are normally made up of landscapes, seascapes, portraits, figures, and still lifes, as these works are all comprised of images that represent an identifiable and genuine object. In addition to these categories, other forms of Representational art include depicting everyday scenes, historical and mythological paintings. In terms of Representational statues, the most common type of statue to emerge from the early art periods were equestrian statues.

While Representational art depicts objects as realistically as possible, not all Representational drawing examples are true to life.

For example, a tree can be represented through standard characteristics that we know are used to identify an object as a tree but can be placed within abstract contexts that a tree would never usually be found in. Despite the environment of paintings not always being lifelike, as long as the objects are represented recognizably, the art is automatically considered to form part of Representational art.

Traditional Representational art made use of atmospheric perspective and color in order to create the illusion of three-dimensional reality on paper or canvas. The knowledge and ability to create such realistic depictions slowly grew through the centuries as different artists arrived on the scene and helped further the Representational art definition, with this art genre never fading from popularity.

What makes Representational art so interesting is that an iconic artwork, such as da Vinci’s Mona Lisa (1503), and a simple crayon drawing of it done by an amateur would be seen as equally representational. The preference for one of these versions of the painting over the other depends on one’s aesthetic taste and not on how well the figure has been depicted.

Thus, Representational art was not a genre specifically reserved for professional artists only, as any painting or drawing that depicts a real object is considered to be a part of the style.

What Is Non-Representational Art?

By contrast, non-Representational art is incredibly different from Representational art. While most art is based on imagery and elements taken from the real world, the more extreme forms of art demonstrate an increasingly strained relationship to the visible world and are thus labeled as non-Representational art. In addition, this type of art is frequently used as a synonym to describe abstract art.

The line that separates Representational art from non-Representational art is extremely thin, as some overlapping between these two art forms still occurs. As art tends to be subjective, audiences and critics may disagree on how to classify certain artworks because of their own personal opinions.

Therefore, an appropriate non-Representational art definition describes artworks that display complete abstraction and place more emphasis on the lines, colors, and shapes seen as opposed to any objects.

With non-Representational art pieces leaning more towards abstraction, the type of artwork made makes no reference to anything remotely recognizable from the real world. The aim of these artists is to create something that is thought of as more intellectual by definition, as not making reference to any distinguishable objects requires viewers to seriously consider the work in order to form an interpretation.

Essentially, the best way to fully understand the non-Representational art definition is to consider and appreciate the differences that exist between this form of art and traditional Representational art. If you are able to see and understand themes from the viewpoint of the artist, accepting the artwork for what it then becomes a lot easier.

Non-Representational Art Examples

As non-Representational art makes use of abstraction within the artworks produced, a variety of different illustrations exist. However, the most common non-Representational art examples include artworks that do not depict any objects from the real world, such as figures and landscapes. Instead, mere shapes, colors, and lines are used to depict the ideas of the artists, as these elements are said to express elements that are not always visible, such as emotions and feelings.

20 th Century Representational Art

Towards the end of the 19th century, Representational painting in Europe was dominated by the movement of Impressionism , which began around 1860. While realistic depictions of people, places, and objects were still being made, they were being painted according to the stylistic techniques of Impressionism, which was incredibly free-flowing and loose.

This led to an increase in Representational drawing, as Impressionists expressed an interest in other mediums of art in addition to painting.

This era led to the emergence of some incredibly notable artists, who created some very well-known Representational artworks. Some of these Representational artists included Edgar Degas, John Singer Sargent, Wassily Kandinsky , and even Vincent van Gogh. While all of these artists had a distinctly different style, they all produced artworks that were based on easily recognizable forms and objects, which labeled them Representational artists in addition to the art movement that they were practicing in.

At the turn of the 20 th century, the different art movements that were developing began to reject the largely representational approach. A movement that abandoned the academic traditions of Representational art and embraced a more subjective approach was German Expressionism, as the political events of the early 20 th century led to a massive increase in abstract art . As a result of this, non-Representational art was not said to evolve until the beginning of the 20 th century, where form was finally given more dominance over substance.

Representational Abstract Art

In addition to the rise of the German Expressionist movement, the appeal of abstraction grew. True-to-life paintings were facing immense pressure from other artists who were unhappy with these antiquated images as they left very little room for intellectual possibilities. As a result of this, artists turned to Representational Abstract Art as a way to reinterpret and modernize subject matter.

A notable artist whose journey from Representational art into Representational Abstract Art can clearly be seen in his artworks is Pablo Picasso.

Within his Blue and Rose periods, Picasso displayed great concentration on realistic and naturalistic painting, with this interest slowly developing towards abstraction as he entered his revolutionary Cubism period. The artworks created from Picasso’s Cubism period make up some of the most famous examples of non-Representational painting ever seen.

Well-Known Representational Artworks and Their Artists

As many artworks that have been produced throughout the decades portray real-life objects and figures, many of them can be seen as wonderful examples of Representational art. As too many exist to possibly be included on one list, we will be looking at four outstanding Representational artworks that each depict a specific subject matter such as human figures, a still life, animals, and a landscape scene.

Paul Cézanne: Four Apples (1881)

This oil on canvas painted by Paul Cézanne exists as an important still-life artwork, as it demonstrates his rejection of thick brushstrokes and intense contrasts of light and shadow. Cézanne did this in order to fully focus on the colors of the objects that he was painting, which helped him create incredibly naturalistic artworks .

Within Four Apples , no one can mistake the four circles in the middle of the canvas to be anything other than what Cézanne said they were, which was apples. While this is certainly one of his simpler paintings, the intricacy of Four Apples lies in the depiction of its subject matter. Cézanne was able to effortlessly depict the fruit exactly as he saw it, leaving no room for viewers to confuse his work for anything else.

Joaquín Sorolla: Valencian   Fishermen (1895)

Painted during the Impressionist movement , Valencian Fishermen exists as a simple work. In giving the artwork such a straightforward title, Joaquín Sorolla portrayed exactly what his artwork is labeled as, as two men standing at the water’s edge and working with fishing equipment can be seen. Thought to be an incredibly relaxed artwork, Sorolla merely depicted fishermen, assumed to be from Valencia, going about their work in the middle of the day.

Sir Stanley Spencer: Turkeys (1925)

Created using a Neo-Romanticism style, Turkeys demonstrated the ability of artists to accurately capture depictions of animals in an incredibly realistic and thus representational style. Within this artwork, Sir Stanley Spencer clearly portrayed turkeys in the back of someone’s garden, with these animals becoming the only focal point in the painting. Based on the single word he titled the artwork, the subject matter of Spencer’s work could not be mistaken by viewers, especially after seeing the simplicity of the artwork.

Algernon Newton: The Surrey Canal, Camberwell (1935)

The final example that we have included is Algernon Newton’s The Surrey Canal, Camberwell , in which a representation of the Surrey Canal is seen. Although not explicitly a landscape artwork, as Newton included buildings that overlooked the canal, the great detail and realism with which they have been painted allow this work to be seen as a great example of Representational art. The clarity with which Newton painted The Surrey Canal, Camberwell adds to the quality of this artwork, as viewers feel as if they are looking at a photograph of the canal as opposed to a painting of it.

As Newton depicted something specific that existed in reality, he created an accurate visual reference of the canal, which allowed viewers to understand and appreciate the work immediately.

The Importance of Representational Art

Representational art made up an important period of art history, as its notable style has been represented by some of the earliest sculptures and artworks that have been documented and found. As Representational art is so widely accepted by audiences and critics alike, it still exists as a popular art form today, despite countless developments in different genres taking place.

A Guideline of Artistic Merit

Representational art is considered an essential genre of art, as it provided a standard by which the artistic quality of artworks could be judged. Portraits, still life’s, and landscape paintings were judged based on their accuracy and similarity to the person and scene that was being depicted, which allowed exceptional work to be differentiated from mediocre work. However, non-Representational art differed greatly, as by not representing anything real, these abstract artworks were not able to be assessed according to objective criteria.

Due to this, the reputation of non-Representational artists varied greatly from that of Representational artists, especially at the start of the 20th century when abstraction flourished.

A Basis for All Visual Art

Representational art acted as an important starting point for all visual art, as it evaluated artists based on their drawing skills, compositional skills, perspective, use of color, and portrayal of light. While these are not the only features used to judge artists and their artworks today, these characteristics of Representational art provided a crucial foundation for the growth of visual art.

Additionally, having a solid base provided by Representational art helped introduce some of the most iconic artists in all of art history. Through creating a benchmark with which to assess artworks, this went on to educate artists from all movements to improve upon certain skills, which led to the creation of some incredibly notable works that are still spoken about today.

Makes Art More Accessible to the Public

As Representational artworks are generally very easy to recognize, the continuation of this genre helped make art more accessible to the general public as time went on. Certain artworks only received true appreciation and fame years after they were produced, which demonstrated the applicability of Representational art as these artworks were still able to be understood after a significant amount of time had passed.

With the rapid rate that technology has progressed, individuals are demonstrating a greater level of comfort with Representational art. This is because these artworks can easily be recreated using various digital tools and computer programs, which demonstrates the relevance that some Representational art pieces still have if they can be captured and altered in a completely new medium.

Despite decades passing since the first examples of Representational art emerged, this art genre has managed to remain incredibly relevant still. As all art, no matter the movement, can be seen as representational if depicting something that truly exists in reality, it becomes increasingly easy to answer the question: what is Representational art? In a nutshell, this art form simply captures elements of reality and represents them in a naturalistic way, so that viewers are able to easily recognize the subject matter artists are attempting to portray.

Isabella studied at the University of Cape Town in South Africa and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English Literature & Language and Psychology. Throughout her undergraduate years, she took Art History as an additional subject and absolutely loved it. Building on from her art history knowledge that began in high school, art has always been a particular area of fascination for her. From learning about artworks previously unknown to her, or sharpening her existing understanding of specific works, the ability to continue learning within this interesting sphere excites her greatly.

Her focal points of interest in art history encompass profiling specific artists and art movements, as it is these areas where she is able to really dig deep into the rich narrative of the art world. Additionally, she particularly enjoys exploring the different artistic styles of the 20 th century, as well as the important impact that female artists have had on the development of art history.

Learn more about Isabella Meyer and the Art in Context Team .

Cite this Article

Isabella, Meyer, “Representational Art – The Development of Representational Artworks.” Art in Context. July 5, 2021. URL: https://artincontext.org/representational-art/

Meyer, I. (2021, 5 July). Representational Art – The Development of Representational Artworks. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/representational-art/

Meyer, Isabella. “Representational Art – The Development of Representational Artworks.” Art in Context , July 5, 2021. https://artincontext.org/representational-art/ .

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What is Representational Art? (Explained with Examples)

When you look at an artwork, the first thing that crosses your mind is how attractive or unattractive the art is. While some artwork simply expresses aesthetic beauty, other artworks aim to pass a message or represent real situations. The latter type of art is known as representational art.

Keep reading to learn more about representational art including its history, its importance in the art world, and some of the styles most well-known artists.

Table of Contents

Definition Of Representational Art

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Some representational artworks fuse abstract art with reality, but this doesn’t make it less of representational art. In other words, some representational artworks could depict real objects in a realistic way, but that is not required.

But, provided that it still has the basic elements related to something real, it is still considered a form of representational art.

Note #1 : Sometimes, Representational Art is referred to as Figurative Art even though it doesn’t have to contain figures.

A Brief History Of Representational Art

There are also ancient arts that date back as far as the Stone age. They usually represent real people and scenes and sometimes narrate the setting of their environment.

Over time, painting techniques have continued to develop and have undergone many stylistic changes. Despite the phases it’s gone through, figurative art has maintained the concept of presenting real-life objects as the subject of the painting.

The Importance Of Representational Art

Representational art serves as a guideline for artistic merit.

One of the major roles that representational paintings and other artworks play is that it sets a standard for evaluating the artistic excellence of an art piece . Evaluation of an artist’s work often depends on the authenticity and similarity it shares with the image the artist tried to recreate. With this, it is easier to differentiate outstanding works from average ones, especially in a portrait or still-life drawing. 

Representational Art Serves As A Starting Point For Artworks

As a result, beginners favor representational art as it helps hone basic artistic skills and helps them graduate into more complicated art forms.

Representational Arts Is Easily Accessible

Artists who have created well-known representational works of art.

There have been many works of art that artists have created over the years that depict real-life things and people. Some of them are exceptional examples of representational art. Each artwork depicts a specific subject matter such as a person, a still-life, an animal, or a landscape. 

Let’s take a look at some of these famous Representational artworks and the artists who created them.

Paul Cezanne’s Masterpiece, Four Apples 

Cézanne used this technique to bring out the colors of the subjects he was painting, allowing him to produce works of art that were lifelike in their appearance.

This ability to depict the fruit exactly as he saw it allowed Cézanne to avoid any possibility of his work being misinterpreted by the public at large.

Joaqun Sorolla’s Valencian Fishermen 

Valencian Fishermen is a simple picture that Sorolla painted in 1895 during the period of the Impressionist movement. By giving his painting such a straightforward title, Joaquin Sorolla could convey exactly what his artwork was about.

Stanley Spencer’s Turkeys

Turkeys demonstrated the painters’ ability to accurately portray animal representations in an incredibly realistic and representational manner. In this picture, Sir Stanley Spencer painted turkeys in the backyard of someone’s home. These turkeys were the focal point of the painting. Thus, they were the first things an admirer saw. 

Algernon Newton’s The Surrey Canal, Camberwell 

Because of the incredible attention to detail and realism he used in his artwork, galleries regard this painting as a notable example of Representational art .

Although Newton painted The Surrey Canal, Camberwell with great precision, the artwork’s quality stems from a different fact. The painting gives spectators the sense that they are looking at a photograph of the canal rather than a painting of it.

A Few Final Thoughts About The Representational Style

Representational art continues to make history, and the style often gives artists a starting point for an artwork.

More From Artistry Found

Similar posts, what is the main subject of persian landscape art (explained), idealized art (a world of perfection), street art vs graffiti (how are they different), the beginner’s guide to conceptual art: what’s the big deal, what is kinetic art – a comprehensive view, what is assemblage art (explained).

Representational Art: Definition and Guide

Representational art is an artistic style in which the artist attempts to depict a representation of real-life subject matter, that is recognisable to the viewer. This is opposed to non-representational art , which does not depict subjects, objects or scenes from the real world.

Art described as representational can be realistic, or less realistic. As long as the artist is attempting to capture a true-to-life resemblance of their subject, it can be considered representational.

This art form dates back centuries, with some artworks dating back to ancient times. From early cave paintings to Renaissance depictions of Biblical scenes, representational art has been used to express ideas and communicate stories for thousands of years.

Genres of Representational Art

Representational art falls into several distinct genres. Landscape painting, for instance, has been popular since the Renaissance and is still widely practised today. Portraiture and figure drawing are other traditional genres and can range from realistic to stylised interpretations depending on the artist’s preference. Still-life paintings are also popular and can depict anything from a simple bowl of fruit to a complex arrangement of objects.

History of Art and Representation

The history of art is vast and varied. Ancient cultures used representational art to tell stories and document events, while more recent movements such as the Renaissance saw a greater emphasis on realism in painting and sculpture. In the 20th century, it saw a resurgence with the rise of movements such as Realism and Pop Art.

Art Movements: How Representational Art Has Evolved

Art has been a tool of expression for humans since antiquity, with each period of history bringing a new evolution in the approach and perception of representational art. The classical era of Greek sculpture is an ideal example of early representational art, where artists sought an idealised, perfect form rather than an exact reflection of reality. The human body was depicted in harmonious proportions, embodying the cultural values of balance, order and beauty.

Renaissance and the Pursuit of Realism

The High Renaissance brought a shift in perspective, with artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo placing an emphasis on Realism. This was a time of great scientific and cultural advancement, and artists sought to depict the world around them with as much authenticity as possible, meticulously observing and capturing minute details of light, shadow, and anatomy.

Representing Subjective Experience During the Post-Impressionist Movement

By the late 19th to early 20th century, the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements emerged. Artists like Van Gogh and Gauguin began to move away from faithfully representing the physical world. Instead, they sought to express their inner experiences and emotions through bold colours and distorted forms. Here, art began its journey towards abstraction, and representational art took on a new dimension, serving not just as a mirror to the world but also as a window into the artist’s mind.

Representational vs. Non-Representational Art

The difference between representational and non-representational art lies in the way that it is produced. Art that is representational is based on representations of reality, while abstract or non-representational art does not depict anything from the real world. Abstract artists can use geometric shapes, colour schemes, or any combination of shapes and lines that do not form recognisable objects. While representational art can have an emotional or symbolic purpose, it is still rooted in the world of everyday experience. Non-representational art, on the other hand, abstains from any obvious reference to reality or pictorial representation.

How Artists Represent Subjects in Art

Artists create representational, or ‘true to life’ art by observing the forms of the subjects and objects they wish to recreate, by drawing shapes , determining accurate proportions or perspective and using colours that emulate that of the reference. This process is often done slowly, in stages. The artist will begin by sketching the basic outline of their subject, to establish the proportions, then add details such as texture and shade to create the impression of the subject’s form.

Representational art is a rewarding endeavour that requires patience and skill. It takes time to learn how to accurately capture the nuances of light and shadow, but with practice, it can be achieved.

Mediums Used for Representational Art

Representational art can be used in any medium, from painting and drawing to sculpture and even digital media. It can be used to create powerful pieces of artwork or simply as a means of documenting an event or moment in time. While realistic art is often thought of as traditional, it can also be used in a more modern context to create unique and interesting pieces of artwork. It is up to the artist how they choose to interpret and use this style of art.

Representational Art

Representational art refers to art that  represents something, whether that be a tree in a landscape, apple in a still life, or figure in a portrait. Or in other words, it is art that is clearly identifiable as something which already exists in life.

Below are some examples of representational art, starting with a watercolor by John Singer Sargent which  represents a white ox:

The painting below by Joaquín Sorolla represents fisherman in Valencia.

The painting below by Paul Cézanne represents apples on a table.

Representational art does not need to be a completely realistic depiction of the subject; there will often be varying levels of abstraction. For example, the Impressionists painted with loose brushwork and simplified forms, often far from a realistic depiction, but their work can still be identifiable as something which already exists. The painting below by Claude Monet is loose and vague, but it still clearly represents a bridge, boats, and distant buildings in an ambient seascape.

The opposite of representational art is complete abstraction, where the lines, colors, and shapes themselves are the focus of the artwork, rather than any existing thing. This is known as non-representational art.

The painting below by Wassily Kandinsky is a great example. Kandinsky may well have intended for this composition to represent something which already exists, but the abstraction is so extreme that to most people, it is just an assortment of lines, colors, and shapes.

The painting below is extremely abstract, however, it is still representational of something I will let you guess what (the name of the painting gives it away). It is not what you would typically associate with representational art, but there is an argument for it.

The more realistic depiction of the rider below is more typical of representational art. Kandinsky went through many changes in style during his lifetime, as you can see from this painting and the two prior. This provides an interesting study in the levels of abstraction, from complete abstraction (non-representational art) to more representational works.

The line which separates representational art from non-representational art is still a gray area (art will always be partly subjective by nature). But this post should give you a general idea of what the term means.

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3 comments on “Representational Art”

I have been attempting to paint a pic of the old barn on the family farm where i grew up! I just cant seem to come up with a color that resembles old barn wood – some shade of gray – but striated- nothing seems to be quite right!!

It’s fascinating how artists like Kandinsky navigated between representational and abstract art. It got me thinking, how do artists decide when to lean more toward realism or abstraction in their works? Is it a conscious choice or more of an instinctive process?

This was so helpful Dan. I didn’t see it 2019. I was struggling with the definition of representational art!!

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Representation – Definition, Examples, History & More – Art Theory Glossary

Table of Contents

Representation in Art: A Comprehensive Glossary

Representation in art refers to the depiction or portrayal of objects, people, or ideas in a visual or tangible form. It is the act of presenting something in a way that conveys its essence or meaning to an audience.

Representation can take many forms, including realistic, abstract, symbolic, or conceptual. Realistic representation aims to accurately depict the physical appearance of a subject, while abstract representation focuses on conveying emotions or ideas through non-representational forms.

Types of Representation in Art

Realistic representation is a style of art that aims to replicate the appearance of the subject as closely as possible. This type of representation is often seen in traditional forms of art such as portraiture, landscape painting, and still life.

Abstract representation, on the other hand, involves simplifying or distorting the subject to convey a deeper meaning or emotion. Artists use color, shape, and form to create a visual language that communicates ideas beyond the literal representation of the subject.

Symbolic representation uses symbols or metaphors to represent ideas, emotions, or concepts. These symbols may be culturally specific or universally recognized, and they can add layers of meaning to the artwork that go beyond the surface representation.

Conceptual representation focuses on the idea or concept behind the artwork rather than the physical representation of the subject. Artists may use text, performance, or installation to convey their ideas, challenging traditional notions of representation in art.

The Role of Representation in Art Theory

Representation plays a crucial role in art theory, as it shapes how we perceive and interpret artworks. Art theorists examine how artists use representation to communicate meaning, express emotions, or challenge societal norms.

Representation also raises questions about the relationship between the artist, the artwork, and the audience. How does the artist’s perspective influence the representation of the subject? How does the audience’s interpretation of the artwork affect its meaning?

Art theorists also consider the power dynamics inherent in representation. Who has the authority to represent certain subjects or ideas? How do issues of race, gender, and class impact the way representation is understood in art?

The Relationship Between Representation and Reality

Representation in art raises questions about the relationship between the representation and the reality it depicts. How accurately can art represent the physical world? How does representation shape our understanding of reality?

Some artists strive to create hyper-realistic representations that mimic the appearance of the subject with precision. Others use representation to distort or manipulate reality, challenging our perceptions and assumptions about the world around us.

The relationship between representation and reality is complex and multifaceted. Art can both reflect and distort reality, blurring the lines between what is real and what is imagined.

Challenges to Traditional Representational Art

Traditional representational art has faced challenges from artists who seek to push the boundaries of representation and explore new ways of expressing ideas. Some artists reject realism in favor of abstraction or conceptualism, challenging traditional notions of beauty and skill in art.

Contemporary Approaches to Representation in Art

Contemporary artists are exploring new approaches to representation that reflect the complexities of the modern world. They may combine multiple styles of representation, incorporate new technologies, or challenge traditional narratives in their work.

Contemporary approaches to representation in art often blur the boundaries between different forms of representation, creating hybrid artworks that defy categorization. These artists are pushing the boundaries of representation and challenging viewers to reconsider their assumptions about art and reality.

JerwoodVisualArts

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representation

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A Guide to Representational Art And How You Can Create Your Own Masterpieces

What are the three basic types of art?

Representational art aims to depict real, identifiable objects which can be easily recognized by the viewer.

There are three basic types of art: representational art, abstract art, and non-objective art. All other art styles, such as impressionism, abstract-expressionism, surrealism, and minimalism can be categorized into one of these three types of art.

The word “representational,” when used in art, means that the work represents something that exists in reality; it may be a tree in a landscape, a bird in still life, or a figure in a painting.

What is representational art?

If we look back in art history, most of the art that was produced was representational. In fact, representational art has been around since man existed. You can look at cave paintings and immediately recognize animals, birds, flora and fauna, and in some cases you can even identify what kind they are. Before the renaissance, paintings were very flat and one-dimensional, but you could still recognize them as being representational. As painting skills progressed with the development of perspective, shade and light, and the improvements in the quality and availability of oil paints, so paintings became even more realistic.

During the 1800s, artists began to experiment with more impressionistic style art, leaving the viewer’s eye with more work to do to appreciate the subject matter. However, they were still very much representational art works.

What is abstract art ?

Abstract art was developed from representational art, where the colors, lines, and shapes themselves are the center of the art, and not the subject matter itself. It is not purely representational art, but rather an interpretation of reality.

Abstract art is a recent invention and didn’t appear until the start of the 20th-century. It can be traced back to Impressionism, Post-Impressionism and Cubism. Artists who painted in these styles were the first to realize that you did not need to make a photographic, or realistic, copy of a object or scene.

Abstract painting typically starts with an object that exists in the real world but presents those subjects in a different way. The broad term “abstraction” is defined as the distancing of an idea from its reference. In painting, it means capturing a object without a literal representation of it. One of the best examples of abstract art is Picasso’s “Three Musicians”. When you look at the painting, you can tell the objects are meant to be three individuals with musical instruments, but neither the musicians nor their instruments are depicted in a realistic way.

What is non-objective art ?

Non-objective art does not represent any kind of reality at all. Instead, it works with color, texture, and other visual elements. The subject of the painting is not identifiable, as it is far from reality. The best example of a non-objective artist is Jackson Pollock, whose work involved complex splatters of paint.

Has representational art disappeared? 

Representational art is the oldest, most well-known, and still the most popular among these three types of painting. Representational art ranges from pure realism, such as the photorealists in the late 1960s, to impressionism in the 1800s, to surrealism in the early 1900s, to fauvism in the turn of the 18th century, and all the way through to cubism, abstraction, and even cave paintings.

Apart from the time that non-objective painting came onto the art scene, all paintings were based on some kind of realism. In the 20th and early 21st century, there were many contemporary artists who delved more into abstraction, expressionism, and other forms of less realistic art. One of the most recognizable expressionist painting is The Scream, by Edvard Munch.

However in the 1980s there was a big move back to creating more representation art, and current artists are beginning to research the old-master skills that were lost when they stopped teaching them in universities around the world.

Thankfully there were still artists creating representational art who knew how to capture subject matter in the way of the old masters, and luckily we have their paintings, books, students, and other resources to teach us their skills. Also, while the western world were experimenting with new art forms and styles, the Russians and Chinese were still learning old master skills in their universities, and they continued to paint in a representational manner. Now we have their resources to bring those old master skills into current day art.

Some Russian and Chinese artists to look at are, Valentin Serov , Isaac Levitan, Konstantin Korovin, Nicolai Fechin, Bato Dugarzhapov , Sergei Bongart, Ovanes Berberian, Jove Wang, Quang Ho, Mian Situ and Huihan Liu.

In the 1900s, there were several groups of artists working in California who were following the representational art traditions. They painted in an impressionistic style, and mostly plein air (the would complete the painting outdoors). When contemporary art came into fashion, the California artists work was no longer popular, and so their paintings weren’t selling. In the 1980s, people realized they were losing a major part of art history, and seeing how inexpensive their paintings were, started snatching them up. Now some of them are worth millions of dollars. Most of these plein air painters came from the East, the Midwest and Europe, where they were influenced by the French Impressionists.

Some of the more prominent artists of the time were: William Wendt (1865–1946), Granville Redmond (1871–1935), Edgar Payne, Armin Hansen (1886–1957), Franz Bischoff (1864–1929), and William Ritschel (1864–1949).

Nowadays, representational art has exploded as an art form again, all over the world. In galleries and museums where you once only saw modern art, now you can see paintings that have evolved and created a new modern art genre.

Who can help me to create my own representational art?

Since 2003, the Virtual Art Academy has been helping artists worldwide to build and expand their painting skills. The VAA is built around a framework of nine skill  Building Blocks ™. The information in these Building Blocks was gathered during over 25 years of research by Barry John Raybould: reading out-of-print books written by master artists, attending workshops of artists who were taught the old master traditions, and trawling the internet for any little snippet that he could add to the extensive eLibrary and lessons.

Over the four-year course of our Apprentice Program you will learn all the key skills in every one of these nine Building Blocks.

The proof that this method works is the fact that Barry John has received many awards for his representational art, his paintings are in museums and many homes around the world, and he now has thousands of students who have gone through his online lessons and live workshops and are now achieving their own accolades.

It doesn’t matter which form of representational art you want to follow, the VAA will teach you all the principles so that you can develop your own style, in any medium you wish to use.

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1.11: Reading- Representational, Abstract, and Nonrepresentational Art

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Abstract art exists on a continuum, from somewhat realistic representational work to fully nonrepresentational work.

• Representational art or figurative art represents objects or events in the real world.
• Romanticism, Impressionism, and Expressionism contributed to the emergence of abstract art in the nineteenth century.
• Even representational work is abstracted to some degree; entirely realistic art is elusive.
• Verisimilitude: the property of seeming true, of resembling reality; has a resemblance to reality

Painting and sculpture can be divided into the categories of figurative (or representational) and abstract (which includes nonrepresentational art). Figurative art describes artworks—particularly paintings and sculptures–that are clearly derived from real object sources, and therefore are by definition representational. Since the arrival of abstract art in the early twentieth century, the term figurative has been used to refer to any form of modern art that retains strong references to the real world.

This figurative or representational work from the seventeenth century depicts easily recognizable objects–ships, people, and buildings. Artistic independence was advanced during the nineteenth century, resulting in the emergence of abstract art. Three movements that contributed heavily to the development of these were Romanticism, Impressionism, and Expressionism.

Abstraction indicates a departure from reality in depiction of imagery in art. Abstraction exists along a continuum; abstract art can formally refer to compositions that are derived (or abstracted) from a figurative or other natural source. It can also refer to nonrepresentational art and non-objective art that has no derivation from figures or objects.

Even art that aims for verisimilitude of the highest degree can be said to be abstract, at least theoretically, since perfect representation is likely to be exceedingly elusive. Artwork which takes liberties, altering for instance color and form in ways that are conspicuous, can be said to be partially abstract.

Delaunay’s work is a primary example of early abstract art. Nonrepresentational art refers to total abstraction, bearing no trace of any reference to anything recognizable. In geometric abstraction, for instance, one is unlikely to find references to naturalistic entities. Figurative art and total abstraction are almost mutually exclusive. But figurative and representational (or realistic) art often contains partial abstraction.

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Understanding Representational Art with Examples

Art is complex. Art is beauty. Art is varied. Visual art is divided into abstract and figurative. Figurative art is also known as representative art. We shall learn about representational art with examples in this ArtHearty article.

The Thin Line of Resemblance Though representational and nonrepresentational art are distinct, and are rather accepted as opposing art forms, there still exists an ambiguous similarity. Representational art contains some traces of abstraction.

Representational Art

The word ‘representational’ originates from the word represent , which means to denote. Likewise, representational art , by definition, represents the art that finds resemblance with the real world. The onlookers of this art form can associate the elements with actuality. And it is this feature of this art form that has garnered appreciation of people from all walks of life. This is the most superior of meanings that could be associated with representational art.

Nonrepresentational art, on the contrary, is that art form bears no elements that has similarity with the real world. It allows room to its viewers to interpret a piece of art in his own way. It is the artist’s way to emote his own experiences, or experiences that he has known in his life. Such works are laden with the artist’s perspective of the object. As far as the nonrepresentational history is concerned, we can infer that in the last part of the 19 th century, emerged a pressing need to have an art form that would stand in total contrast to the stark depiction of reality. Thus, came into the fore, non-representational art, which in itself is a broad terminology, and has within its ambit, a plethora of elements that is beyond the scope of this article.

Having understood these, we can say that most paintings and sculptures can be divided into either representational art or non-representational art. Well, the answer is certainly an affirmation of the question.

Representational art is also known as figurative, and nonrepresentational art is known as abstract. Figurative art is directly influenced by real-life sources, while the abstract art is an embodiment of the artist’s creative waves and the interpretation by the viewers. This phenomenon resulted from artistic independence. Representational art showcases humans, elements in nature such as trees, birds, flowers, etc.

Origin of Representational Art

• The very first representational art dates back to the prehistoric times, when the prehistoric men carved paintings on the caves.
• The purpose of it was to represent human or animal form. Venus of Willendorf is one of the living examples of a piece of representational art.
• Apart from this, there are also opinions that Australian rock art discovered on the caves may also be one of the oldest forms of figurative art attempted by humans.

Let’s recognize some of the characteristics of this art form in the sections given below, and also take a look at some of the marvels of this art form.

Characteristics of Representational Art

Statuettes Portraying Representational Art

Antique Greek Sculpture Depicting Representational Art

Apollo’s Statue

Figurine Showing Representational Art

Venus of Willendorf

Drawings/Paintings Portraying Representational Art

Ancient Cave Paintings

Ancient Stone Painting

The Last Supper Painting

Woman’s Painting – Representational Art

Memories of Corfu Painting

Aerial View Of a Bay

A representational artist is an observer. He executes and reflects in his art form, what he sees through his eyes and captures in his mind. But, a room for discretion is always left, wherein he alters with the actual object. Thus, representational art is correlated to observation.

Representational art has within its ambit an imagery, which is brought about with the help of mental process of representation. The minimum requirement for this type of art is a piece of object, which could be replicated.

Figurative art is an important characteristic of representational art. The word in itself is an explanation of the characteristic; i.e., it is influenced by a figure. In fact, this is the most important characteristic because without this, the art would not retain its meaning.

Some of the key features that figurative art has to take account of is the correct usage of elements such as the combination of light and shade, color of the object, and the tone. As it is the replication of the figurines, therefore, the piece must highlight the same to the maximum.

The characteristic feature of representational art is based on the viewpoint of a single focus, unlike representational art which follows no clear distinct focus.

What we mean by a single focus is that the artist tries to view the object from a single viewpoint so that his replication is closest to the original.

Edward Hopper was an enthusiast of representational art. He is considered as one of the best examples of America’s most prominent realistic painters.

A burning example of representational art is Renaissance art. This art form was driven by the principle of humanism. The core belief of humanism was to represent elements that were close to the real life, rather than symbolism. Mona Lisa of the Renaissance period is an example of representational art form.

Fresco and tempera are two great techniques that were highly practiced in representational art. These techniques were used by Florentine artists. Michelangelo was one such Florentine artist.

The influence of industrial revolution on this art form was innate. Depiction of reality, one of the many characteristics of representational art, escalated a peak at that time.

Color in this art form was held at the helm. It was utterly important to depict the object in the same color as seen in reality.

Another noteworthy characteristic of representational art is the impressionist mode of painting. This developed during the period of Impressionism. The point that this method emphasized on is on the use of accurate brush strokes that would define reality in toto.

As far as categorizing representational art is concerned, there isn’t much scope to diversify it into categories and groups. One straight and simple reason for this is that the artist has to cling to his depiction of the object in its true color, form, and texture. There is no room for variation, and hence, varieties would be vague in this context. So, in conclusion, it could be safely said that representational art requires great skills and a strong sense of color, tone, and light, apart from drawing skills.

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What is Representational Art? (Explained)

Just suppose you are at an art museum, and you come across a painting of a woman. That is a representational painting. You can see the brushstrokes and how the artist captured the light in her eyes. You can feel the warmth of the sun on her skin. You can almost smell the perfume she’s wearing.

Representational paintings often aim to create a perfect representation of the subject matter. They can be very realistic or have a more abstracted or impressionistic style. Whatever the style, the goal is always to create an image that looks as close to reality as possible.

What is Representational Art?

This type of art is often easy to identify, as it typically features recognizable images from the natural or physical world. Representational art has been popular with the masses for centuries and is a favored genre among many artists and enthusiasts.

Why is Representational Art Popular?

This painting contrasts with non-representational art, which does not depict the recognizable subject matter. Some examples of non-representational art include cave paintings and specific abstractions.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to creating representational art, and contemporary artists continue to excel within boundaries of this traditional art form.

Is Representational Art a Form of Art?

Representational art is one of the oldest and most famous art forms. This type of art has been around for centuries, and many famous paintings fall into this category.

Regardless of the approach, representational art is a form that will likely continue to be popular among artists and art lovers. Also, It is essential to understand that art doesn’t have to be a physical object. It can also be an idea, feeling, or concept.

So, to answer the question, representational art is a form of art.

Are all Arts Representational?

Whether representational or non-representational, all art has the potential to engage and inspire us.

Why is Representational Art Important?

Reflection of our world and the people.

But most importantly, this type of art allows us to see ourselves and our world in a new light. Sometimes, we should be reminded of the beauty surrounding us and the potential for good within us.

Capture Important Moments and Historical Events

Whether a painting, sculpture, or photograph, representational art allows us to express ourselves and connect with others.

Communicate Ideas and Feelings

Representational art communicates ideas and feelings that are difficult to express in words. A painting or sculpture can capture the essence of a moment or feeling and convey it to the viewer directly and immediately.

Educate People about the World Around them

In short, representational art is important because it has the power to educate and inspire people.

What are the Basic Elements of Representational Art?

One can see how the elements are used differently in each type of artwork. For example, the artist may use brushstrokes to create lines and texture in a painting. The colors are blended to create different values. The use of light and shadow creates shapes.

What makes a Representational Painting Successful?

In addition, the painting should convey a clear message or central idea. It should be understandable to viewers and evoke a strong emotional response.

Why is Mona Lisa a Representational Art?

Da Vinci used sfumato, a painting technique that blurs the lines between colors to create a sense of depth and shadows. This technique gives the painting a realistic, unrivaled quality at the time.

What is the Future of Representational Art?

Whether it takes the form of a painting, a sculpture, or a photograph, representational art will always reflect our shared humanity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 3 types of representational art.

Three distinctive types of artistic representation are Realism, Impressionism, and Abstraction. Realistic art conveys the subject matter in a precise manner. On the other hand, Impressionists use bold brushstrokes to portray their object’s emotional state or feeling. Lastly, abstraction captures what is essential without being bound by details.

Is Representational Art Objective?

What is the representational principle, what is the opposite of representational art, is flower a representational art, can abstract art be representational.

Abstract art is a powerful visual expression of emotion and idea rather than an exact replication of reality. Abstract art enables us to capture feelings beyond what mere words can impart, working with colors, textures, and lines to stimulate the desired feeling or concept being depicted.

About The Author

Madhan kumar.

Abstract vs. Representational Art | Overview & Examples

Tristan Carwile holds a B.A. in Religious Studies from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, where they spent two years as an academic tutor for a variety of humanities courses. Following their bachelor’s program, they received an M.A. in Theological Studies at Princeton Theological Seminary.

Stephanie has taught studio art and art history classes to audiences of all ages. She holds a master's degree in Art History.

What does it mean when an artwork is representational?

Artwork is representational when its subject is a real world object. Where non-representational art may attempt to depict an idealized form that does not actually exist (e.g., a "pure" disc), representational compositions are based on real-life objects (e.g., a CD or a round plate).

What are the examples of representational arts?

Representational arts can be made through many mediums, including painting, multimedia, photography, and sculpture. Each of these can be used to depict a real-world object, in varying degrees of naturalism.

What is example of non-representational art?

Robert Delaunay's painting "Le Premier Disque" is an example of non-representational art, as it attempts to depict a non-object (an idealized form of a disc) through visual art. This has no basis in the real world, as a "pure" disc does not exist.

Table of Contents

Abstract art vs. representational art, abstract art, what is representational art, what is non-representational art, lesson summary.

Visual art can be created in many forms and through innumerable mediums, whether from painting and sculpture to photography and film. Each of these possesses the potential to externalize a person's inner thoughts and emotions, to express adoration or disdain, or to enquire about the nature of the world and the meaning of life. These pursuits will often produce art that can be classified either as representational or abstract. While there are other classifications (such as figurative and concrete ), these are the broadest and arguably most common ones used to describe visual art. While they are distinct from each other, representational and abstract art are not unrelated; rather abstract art can often be described as representational, though in varying degrees. Thus, the two are not antonyms, per se, but instead are terms to delineate stylistic nuances in visual art.

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• 0:04 Images, Ideas, & Art
• 0:55 What is Abstract Art?
• 2:55 What is Representational Art?
• 5:00 Lesson Summary

A more recent development in the visual arts, abstract art can be defined as a style that distills its subject into more basic shapes and colors and has been frequently interpreted as signifying moral virtues. By portraying a subject in a more simplified manner, the artist captures its basic form and shape. The ideals of abstract art are typified by bold and colorful lines, and geometric patterns arranged into a composition. Finding its earliest roots in the late 19th century with Romanticism and Impressionism, it was not until the early 20th century that abstraction became the vogue style via the Cubists, Expressionists, and Dada group, among others. While abstract art is technically considered a kind of representational art (i.e., an abstraction of a real-life subject), the term is more often associated with non-representational art, both of which will be discussed later in this lesson.

Famous Abstract Art Examples

The artist who is largely credited with pioneering abstract art is Dutch painter Piet Mondrian, whose compositions attempted to depict the innate spirituality of nature and the world. To achieve this, Mondrian would paint a subject in the vertical and horizontal plane, which represented oppositional forces at work in the world (e.g., positivity and negativity) as well as the subject's natural harmony in the midst of those forces. His piece Composition with Large Red Plane, Yellow, Black, Gray, and Blue attempts to accomplish this task with regard to color, shape, and line themselves.

Like Piet Mondrian, Wassily Kandinsky also sought to explore the ubiquitous spirituality of the world by painting abstract compositions. His aim was to produce a universal, visual language that would transcend culture, time, and class by using colorful shifting forms, blended edges, and curved lines to express emotion and spirituality. His work Composition VII showcases these qualities in its representation of salvation and destruction's ever-enduring cycle.

A broader classification than abstract art, representational art may be defined as art that is based upon a real-world subject, which can be depicted either in lifelike detail or in a more imaginative, reality-bending manner. Representational art comprises the majority of art history, but the term did not arise until the early 20th century when it became necessary to distinguish it from the newly-arising non-representational and concrete styles. As mentioned in previous sections, representational art can also be abstract to a certain degree. Movements such as Cubism and Expressionism produced depictions of real-life objects that rendered them nearly unrecognizable; however, because these compositions are still derived from (and are portrayals of) the natural world, they are still considered representational art. This classification of visual art is less defined by stylistic motifs, and more measured by its subject matter.

Famous Representational Art Examples

Due to its extreme prominence, representational art can be found across many centuries in the works of innumerable artists. One such eminent artist was Leonardo DaVinci, whose works include The Last Supper and The Mona Lisa. Because these are both highly detailed and depict forms in a true-to-life manner, they are excellent examples of representational art in the strictest sense.

However, Vincent Van Gogh's famed painting The Starry Night may also be deemed representational art, despite its less realistic, dreamy impression of a beautiful night sky. The dramatic swirling brushstrokes, the exaggerated size of the stars, and the haziness of the village below present a romanticized image of what Van Gogh actually saw, but it is nonetheless an example of representational art.

Further down the spectrum away from DaVinci's detailed realism is the Cubist painting Nude Descending a Staircase No. 2, by Marcel Duchamp. This piece is a study in movement that attempts to abstract the motions of a model embarking down a staircase and synthesize those motions over time into a single image.

Previously in the lesson, it was stated that abstract art is not the opposite of representational art, though it is commonly framed to be so. The true opposite of representational art is non-representational art , which can be defined as art that lacks any real-world subject (i.e., landscapes, human figures, physical objects). This type of art utilizes form, line, and color to explore intangible reality: emotion, spirituality, and philosophy. These subjects had previously been explored in abstract representational art, but eventually pushed art into more non-representational forms. As a result, most modern abstract art is associated with non-representational subject material, despite its origins in representational work. Some artists who are lumped in with abstract artists prefer to describe their art as non-objective , in an attempt to acknowledge the uniquely non-representational aims of their work and to distance themselves from the representational roots of abstract art. This style is particularly interested in conveying purity and simplicity through compositions devoid of real-life objects—hence the name "non-objective."

Non-Representational Art Examples

The boundaries between abstract art and non-representational art are blurred at best. However, the best way to understand the difference is that non-representational art always seeks to distill its non-objective subject into its purest essence via geometric compositions. While abstract art may deal with the same themes of spirituality and emotion, there are merely that—themes. In non-representational art, these are the subjects themselves. In other words, abstract art utilizes compositions that reflect the world to explore non-objective themes, whereas non-representational art attempts to make compositions of the non-objective itself. For example, Robert Delaunay's painting Le Premier Disque reflects nothing in the physical world, instead attempting to signify a disc in its most essential and pure form, free of any tethers to the real world. In this sense, non-representational (and non-objective) art is highly philosophical.

In this lesson, the relationship between representational and abstract art has been shown to be more close than is commonly assumed. Representational art is that portrays real-life objects, in varying degrees of naturalism. That is, even when a piece portrays odd colors and exaggerated figures, they are still recognizable and real-world objects, making them representational. The Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh is an example of representational art that does this.

Popularized by Piet Mondrian, abstract art is defined by bold, colorful lines and geometric shapes arranged into a composition, and can evoke non-objective themes, but ultimately does not use them as the primary subject (i.e., the basis of the artwork). An example of abstract art is Wassily Kandinsky's work, which used colorful shifting forms, blended edges, and curving lines to express emotion and spirituality. Finally, Non-representational art (which includes non-objective art ) is art that has no basis in real-world objects and instead seeks to depict a subject (whether emotional, philosophical, or spiritual) in its purest essence.

Video Transcript

Images, ideas, and art.

Artists express themselves in many ways. They might work in two dimensions with specific materials like paint or colored pencils. They might weave textiles or carve sculptures from marble. Whatever materials they choose to use, some artists create work that looks like things we recognize. Some images include landscape scenes or portraits of people.

But other artists create works that don't look like things we see in the real world. Have you ever stood in front of a painting that was full of squiggly, colorful lines or a sculpture made of vague geometric shapes? This work can be challenging to appreciate, but it helps if you understand certain ideas related to these different kinds of art.

Some art is representational, while other works are abstract. Now, let's explore what these words mean and how these types of art differ.

What is Abstract Art?

Abstract art is basically art that doesn't look like things you find in the real world. A work of abstract art might explore elements like color, line and form. It doesn't includes images or shapes of objects that you would recognize. The idea of abstract art really got its start in the early 20th century when artists began to move away from strict depictions of real-world elements to express inner ideas, theories and emotions. Artists known for creating abstract art include Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944) and Piet Mondrian (1872-1944).

Abstract Art: Examples

Abstract works can look very different from each other. In a painting by Wassily Kandinsky, Painting with Red Spot , done around 1914, we see a canvas full of colorful shifting forms and lines. Kandinsky was interested in expressing inner emotional and spiritual feelings. He used paint to form merging curves and blended edges, but not to form recognizable things.

Now, compare the Kandinsky painting to a work by Piet Mondrian called Composition in Red, Yellow, Blue and Black, done in 1921. It's formal and precise, with bold geometric forms and specific hard-edged areas of color. Mondrian began his career painting things like landscapes but eventually shifted to abstraction. He felt it better allowed him to convey ideas about balance and harmony.

Other than including the color red, the Kandinsky and Mondrian paintings look very different from each other. And that's okay. Each artist was exploring different ideas and searching for ways to express them.

So, abstract art is about ideas or even the physical process of creating art. When you look at an abstract work, examine how elements are arranged. Look at colors. Abstract art might focus on aggressive brushstrokes or crisp geometric forms. It might explore repeated patterns or blocks of pure color. But it's not anchored to anything you see in visual reality.

What is Representational Art?

On the other hand, representational art is recognizable as something you might see in the real world. It's identifiable as a scene, objects or figures. Representational art doesn't have to be limited to completely realistic scenes. The artist might choose to paint a tree in different colors, for example, or create a mystical world with people and monsters. But in general, we still see things in the work that we recognize as being ''things.''

Representational art has been around for thousands of years. Ancient examples include cave paintings where very early humans used natural pigments to create images of bison and other animals they hunted. For much of the history of art, works were representational.

We can look at artists who were separated by centuries, like Leonardo Da Vinci (1452-1519) and Vincent Van Gogh (1853-1890) and see things recognizable to us in their work.

Representational Art: Examples

For example, in Leonardo da Vinci's The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne , created in the early 1500s, we see human figures in a landscape of rocks and trees. The people are rendered with subtle shading and highlights to give them rounded, dimensional forms. Da Vinci painted this image more than 500 years ago, but we certainly recognize elements in it.

Compare the Leonardo da Vinci work to a much later painting by artist Vincent Van Gogh. In the famous work The Starry Night , painted in 1889, the sky seems alive with swirling lines. Repeated waves of color convey stars, trees, and the village below.

Van Gogh used his brushes and thicker paint to create an image very different than that of the Leonardo da Vinci work. But, we recognize the stars, trees, and village as things in the real world—just as we do with the figures of the Virgin and Saint Anne.

So, abstract art conveys ideas without using recognizable forms. Representational art includes shapes and things we might see around us. Now that you know more about how these two types of art differ, can you find examples of each in a gallery or museum near you?

Alright, let's take a moment to review what we learned in this lesson.

Artists work in many different ways and create many kinds of images. Some artists make abstract art that doesn't look like things in the real world. Abstract art might explore things like color or line, but it doesn't include recognizable elements like people, animals, or houses. Artists who created abstract works include Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian .

Representational art on the other hand is work that includes elements we see in physical reality. Landscapes and portraits of people are examples of representational art. This type of art has been around for thousands of years, and we can find examples tracing back to the ancient world. Artists who created representational art include Leonardo da Vinci and Vincent Van Gogh .

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Figurative art

Figurative art describes any form of modern art that retains strong references to the real world and particularly to the human figure

The term has been particularly used since the arrival of abstract art to refer to artists that retain aspects of the real world as their subject matter, though in a general sense figurative also applies retrospectively to all art before abstract art.

Modern figurative art can be seen as distinct from modern realism in that figurative art uses modern idioms, while modern realists work in styles predating post-impressionism (more or less). In fact, modern figurative art is more or less identical with the general current of expressionism that can be traced through the twentieth century and on.

Picasso after about 1920 is the great exemplar of modern figurative painting, and Alberto Giacometti from about 1940 is the great figurative sculptor. After the Second World War figuration can be tracked through the work of Francis Bacon , Lucian Freud and the other artists of the School of London , and through pop art , neo-expressionism , and new spirit painting .

Does this text contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? We would like to hear from you.

related terms and concepts

Abstract art.

Abstract art is art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality but instead uses shapes, colours, forms and gestural marks to achieve its effect

Modern realism

The term modern realism is applied to painting or sculpture created since the development of abstraction in modern art but which continues to represent things in a realistic manner

Post-impressionism

Post-impressionism is a term which describes the changes in impressionism from about 1886, the date of last Impressionist group show in Paris

Expressionism

Expressionist art refers to the expression of subjective emotions, inner experiences and spiritual themes, as opposed to realistic depictions of people or nature

School of London

School of London was a term invented by artist R.B. Kitaj to describe a group of London-based artists who were pursuing forms of figurative painting in the face of avant-garde approaches in the 1970s

Pop art is an art movement that emerged in the 1950s and flourished in the 1960s in America and Britain, drawing inspiration from sources in popular and commercial culture. Different cultures and countries contributed to the movement during the 1960s and 70s

Neo-expressionism

Neo-expressionism acted as a major revival of painting in an expressionist manner in the 1980s and it occurred internationally

New spirit painting

New spirit painting is a term which refers to the resurgence of expressionist painting around 1980

selected artists in the collection

Alberto giacometti, pablo picasso, francis bacon, lucian freud, selected artworks in the collection, the three dancers, walking woman i, reclining woman, standing by the rags.

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What Is Nonrepresentational Art?

Technically, it's not abstract art

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Nonrepresentational art is often used as another way to refer to abstract art, but there is a distinct difference between the two. Fundamentally, nonrepresentational art is work that does not represent or depict a being, place, or thing.

If representational art is a picture of something, for instance, nonrepresentational art is the complete opposite: Rather than directly portray something recognizable, the artist will use form, shape, color, and line— essential elements in visual art —to express emotion, feeling, or some other concept.

It's also called "complete abstraction" or nonfigurative art.  Nonobjective art is related and often viewed as a subcategory of nonrepresentational art.

Nonrepresentational Art Versus Abstraction

The terms "nonrepresentational art" and " abstract art " are often used to refer to the same style of painting. However, when an artist works in abstraction, they are distorting the view of a known thing, person, or place. For example, a landscape can easily be abstracted, and Picasso often abstracted people and instruments .

Nonrepresentational art, on the other hand, does not begin with a "thing" or subject from which a distinctive abstract view is formed. Instead, it is "nothing" but what the artist intended it to be and what the viewer interprets it as. It could be splashes of paint as we see in Jackson Pollock's work. It may also be the color-blocked squares that are frequent in Mark Rothko's paintings.

The Meaning Is Subjective

The beauty of nonrepresentational work is that it is up to us to give it meaning through our own interpretation. Sure, if you look at the title of some piece of art you may get a glimpse into what the artist meant, but quite often that's just as obscure as the painting itself.

It is quite the opposite of looking at a still life of a teapot and knowing that it is a teapot. Similarly, an abstract artist may use a Cubist approach to break down the geometry of the teapot, but you may still be able to see a teapot. If a nonrepresentational artist, on the other hand, was thinking of a teapot while painting a canvas, you'd never know it.

While this subjective point of view to nonrepresentational art offers freedom of interpretation to the viewer, it is also what bothers some people about the style. They want the art to be about something , so when they see seemingly random lines or perfectly shaded geometric shapes, it challenges what they're used to.

Examples of Nonrepresentational Art

Dutch painter Piet Mondrian (1872–1944) is a perfect example of a nonrepresentational artist, and most people look to his work when defining this style. Mondrian labeled his work as "neoplasticism," and he was a leader in De Stijl, a distinct Dutch complete abstraction movement.

Mondrian's work, such as "Tableau I" (1921), is flat; it is often a canvas filled with rectangles painted in primary colors and separated by thick, amazingly straight black lines. On the surface, it has no rhyme or reason, but it is captivating and inspiring nonetheless. The appeal is in the structural perfection combined with the asymmetrical balance, creating a juxtaposition of simple complexity.

Confusion With Nonrepresentational Art

Here's where the confusion with abstract and nonrepresentational art really comes into play: Many artists in the Abstract Expressionist movement were technically not painting abstracts. They were, in fact, painting nonrepresentational art.

If you look through the work of Jackson Pollock (1912–1956), Mark Rothko (1903–1970), and Frank Stella (b. 1936), you will see shapes, lines, and colors, but no defined subjects. There are times in Pollock's work in which your eye grabs onto something, though that's simply your interpretation. Stella has some works that are indeed abstractions, yet most are nonrepresentational.

These abstract expressionist painters are often not depicting anything; they are composing with no preconceived notions of the natural world. Compare their work to Paul Klee (1879–1940) or Joan Miró (1893–1983) and you will see the difference between abstraction and nonrepresentational art.

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