The Origins of Abstract Art

Abstract art emerged in the early 20th century as artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Kazimir Malevich challenged conventional representation, shifting away from depicting the visible world to focus on pure form, color, and emotion.
This radical break from tradition invited viewers to engage with art on an emotional and intellectual level, rather than relying on recognizable subjects. The movement’s willingness to question established norms laid the groundwork for its enduring influence today. For more on the historical roots and pioneers of abstraction, explore MoMA’s abstract art overview.