What is the difference between abstract and non-representational art?

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What is the difference between abstract and non-representational art?

Abstract art and non-representational art are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two.

Abstract art refers to a style of art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of visual reality. It emphasizes the use of shapes, colors, forms, and gestural marks to achieve its effect. Abstract art may still have recognizable elements from the real world, but they are often distorted or simplified to the point where they become unrecognizable. The purpose of abstract art is to evoke emotions, sensations, or ideas through the use of non-representational forms.

On the other hand, non-representational art, also known as non-objective art, completely eliminates any reference to recognizable objects or subjects. It does not attempt to represent anything from the physical world. Non-representational art is purely concerned with the visual elements of art, such as line, shape, color, texture, and composition. It aims to create a purely aesthetic experience, detached from any external references or meanings.

In summary, while both abstract and non-representational art do not aim to accurately depict reality, abstract art may still contain recognizable elements that are distorted or simplified, whereas non-representational art completely eliminates any reference to recognizable objects or subjects.