What Is Abstract Wall Art? A Helpful Guide to Styles, Meaning & How to Choose

What Is Abstract Wall Art? A Helpful Guide to Styles, Meaning & How to Choose

Table of Contents

Abstract wall art invites you to experience art through emotion, not representation. Rather than depicting a landscape or figure, it captures movement, balance, and feeling through colour, form, and texture. These artworks add rhythm and energy to a room while creating space for interpretation - no two viewers will ever see the same thing.

Whether your home leans toward Minimalist, Japandi, or Scandi-inspired design, abstract wall art brings depth and personality without overwhelming the space. It is the language of simplicity, colour, and movement - perfectly suited to modern Australian interiors.

At Profile, our Abstract Wall Art Prints collection celebrates this expressive art form through a curated range of Australian-made works, including featured artist Dan Hobday. Each print is handcrafted in our Sydney studio using sustainable timber frames, available in oak, black, and white, and finished with gallery grade acrylic glazing for lasting clarity and protection.

Abstract wall art prints by Dan Hobday

What Is Abstract Wall Art?

Here are the defining traits of abstract wall art:

  • Expresses emotion through form and colour rather than literal imagery.
  • Not based on real world objects, people, or places.
  • Focuses on how a composition feels rather than what it represents.
  • Abstract art may still reference real subjects; non objective art does not.
  • Originated with pioneers like Kandinsky and Mondrian, whose works explored colour and rhythm as a universal visual language.

Defining Abstract Art

Abstract wall art is a broad term used to describe artwork that does not aim to represent objects, people, or places as they appear in the real world. Instead, it uses shape, colour, line, and texture to express ideas or evoke emotion. The meaning is often open to interpretation - what feels peaceful to one viewer might seem powerful or energetic to another.

Unlike realistic paintings or photography, abstract art steps away from literal representation. It can be inspired by nature, geometry, or pure imagination. The focus is not on what you see, but on what you feel.

Abstract vs Non-Objective Art

The term “abstract” is often used interchangeably with “non-objective” art, though there is a subtle difference: abstract works may still be loosely based on reality, while non-objective pieces have no visual reference at all.

Key Pioneers

Many consider pioneers like Wassily Kandinsky and Piet Mondrian as the foundation of modern abstract art. Their works explored rhythm, harmony, and colour as a universal language - an approach that continues to influence today’s artists. For example, see our Piet Mondrian Composition Art Print, which echoes Mondrian’s signature use of clean lines and primary colours.

For a deeper dive, authoritative resources like the Tate Modern’s history of abstract art and MoMA’s online collection offer valuable insight into the origins of abstraction.

Piet Mondrian abstract wall art

The Different Styles of Abstract Wall Art

Abstract art takes many forms, each offering a unique way to express energy, emotion, and visual balance. Understanding the key styles can help you choose a piece that complements your personality and décor.

Geometric Abstract Art:

Characterised by grids, symmetry, and structured compositions, this style reflects precision and balance. Think clean lines, rectangles, and harmonious colour blocks that suit modern or minimalist homes.

Gestural / Expressionist Abstract Art:

Known for visible brushwork and expressive movement, this style communicates raw emotion and spontaneity. It works beautifully in spaces that welcome creativity, warmth, and personal energy.

Colour Field Art:

Features large areas of soft gradients or bold, uniform colour to evoke calm and contemplation. These artworks are ideal for bedrooms or serene living spaces where you want atmosphere without clutter.

Line Art & Minimal Forms:

Defined by simplicity and restraint, this style uses flowing organic lines or abstract shapes set against open space. It is perfect for Japandi and Scandi-inspired interiors, where quiet elegance meets natural materials.

Each of these styles brings its own rhythm and mood to a room. Whether you are drawn to geometric precision or painterly expression, the right abstract print can become a focal point that ties your whole space together.

Abstract wall art style

How Abstract Wall Art Enhances Interior Design Styles

Abstract wall art has the rare ability to adapt to almost any interior style. Its focus on colour, texture, and form means it complements rather than competes with the furniture, lighting, and textures within a room. Instead of dictating the theme, abstract pieces harmonise with it, creating a balanced, curated look.

In a Minimalist interior, abstract prints add just the right amount of depth and emotion to clean lined, clutter free spaces. Choose compositions that feature muted tones, geometric patterns, or tonal gradients for calm visual rhythm. Explore our Minimalist Art Prints collection for subtle yet expressive designs.

In Japandi style spaces, abstract art bridges natural harmony and modern simplicity. Organic brushstrokes, earthy tones, and soft linear compositions echo the natural textures of timber, linen, and stone. See how our Japandi Art Prints complement neutral, nature inspired palettes.

In a Scandi inspired home, abstract art adds warmth and gentle contrast to white walls and pale timbers. Pastel colour fields and flowing line work bring movement while maintaining the Scandinavian preference for light and openness. Discover examples within our Scandi Wall Art collection.

Featured artist Dan Hobday embodies these timeless qualities through his soft, organic forms and nature influenced palettes. His artworks, available exclusively in our Abstract Wall Art Prints collection, capture the essence of calm, simplicity, and modern Australian design.

Scandi style wall art prints

How to Choose the Right Abstract Art Print for Your Space

Choosing the right abstract print starts with how you want your space to feel. Abstract art is emotion made visible, so begin by deciding whether you want to create calm, energy, focus, or warmth. Each piece should reflect the atmosphere you want to bring into the room.

Colour and Mood

Colours have a powerful emotional pull. Soft neutrals and warm tones evoke calm and connection, while bold colours like teal or mustard inject life and creativity. For a cohesive look, pick one or two tones already found in your room’s furniture or soft furnishings.

Scale and Proportion

Size matters. A common mistake is choosing artwork that is too small. Oversized abstract prints (such as A0 or A1 size) can anchor a room and make a statement, while smaller pieces (such as A2 and A3 size) can work beautifully in pairs or gallery walls. When in doubt, go bigger, as it is easier to balance a large artwork than one that feels lost on the wall.

Orientation and Placement

Landscape works well above sofas or sideboards, while portrait pieces suit narrow walls or stairwells. Square formats are not currently available in our wall art range, so we recommend focusing on landscape or portrait orientations for the best visual balance.

Framing and Finish

The frame you choose can completely transform the mood of your print. Natural oak adds warmth and texture, black frames create definition and contrast, and white frames keep the look clean and contemporary. Each Profile Australia piece is framed in sustainably sourced solid timber with shatter-proof acrylic for a premium finish.

Every artwork in our Abstract art print collection is printed on archival quality paper using fade resistant inks, ensuring your chosen piece remains vivid and inspiring for years to come.

Abstract wall art prints

Where Abstract Wall Art Works Best in Your Home

Abstract wall art has a unique ability to shift the mood of a room depending on its placement. Here is how to use it intentionally throughout your home:

Living Room: The perfect place for a bold statement piece. Hang a large abstract print above the sofa or fireplace to anchor the space and draw the eye. For inspiration, explore our Living Room Wall Art collection.

Bedroom: Choose soft colour fields or flowing line art to encourage calm and relaxation. Abstract works with gentle tones or organic shapes help create a soothing environment ideal for winding down. See our Bedroom Wall Art range for options that pair perfectly with natural textures.

Entryway or Hallway: Make an immediate impression with a striking abstract composition. This is the perfect area to showcase movement and contrast. Discover pieces that command attention in our Hallway Wall Art collection.

Home Office: Bring focus and inspiration to your workspace with a vibrant or structured abstract piece. Colours that energise and compositions that balance geometry can promote creativity. Browse our Office Wall Art for curated ideas.

By tailoring your abstract artwork to each room’s purpose, you can create a home that feels cohesive, balanced, and full of personality.

Abstract wall art prints for your bedroom

Framing & Quality - Why It Matters

Framing plays a crucial role in how abstract wall art is perceived and preserved. A well crafted frame does not just complete the artwork, it protects it and enhances its visual impact for years to come.

Why Framing Quality Matters:

  • A premium frame elevates the simplest composition, giving it structure and presence on the wall.
  • Inferior frames can warp, fade, or crack over time; using durable, sustainable materials ensures longevity and stability.

Our Craftsmanship Promise:

  • Every piece is handcrafted in Sydney by skilled framers using sustainably sourced solid timber.
  • Frames are built to the same standard used in professional custom framing studios.
  • All artworks are finished with shatter proof, gallery grade acrylic glazing for superior clarity and UV protection.

Frame Colour Options:

  • Natural Oak: Adds warmth and organic texture to both neutral and colourful spaces.
  • Black Timber: Provides striking contrast and definition, ideal for bold contemporary interiors.
  • White Timber: Creates a clean, modern aesthetic that blends effortlessly with Scandinavian or coastal styles.

Each frame is backed by Profile Australia’s lifetime guarantee, proof of our commitment to lasting quality and craftsmanship. When you invest in our abstract wall art, you are choosing Australian made framing that is designed to look beautiful for decades.

Abstract wall art collection

FAQs About Abstract Wall Art

Is abstract art the same as modern art?
Not exactly. Abstract art is one movement within modern art but not all modern art is abstract. Modern art includes many styles, from realism to surrealism, while abstract art focuses purely on form, colour, and composition without depicting real life subjects. You can explore more in our Modern Wall Art Prints collection.

Will abstract art go out of style?
No. Abstract wall art remains timeless because it evolves with interior trends. Its flexibility in colour, texture, and mood means it complements almost any aesthetic, from contemporary to classic, and continues to feel fresh across decades.

Can abstract wall art work in small rooms?
Absolutely. In compact spaces, choose lighter colour palettes or minimal compositions to create visual openness. Smaller scale prints, paired artworks, or vertically oriented pieces can make walls appear taller and rooms feel larger.

Do I need to understand abstract art to enjoy it?
Not at all. The beauty of abstract art lies in personal connection; there are no rules. Each viewer brings their own interpretation and emotion to the artwork, making it an individual and meaningful experience.

How do I style abstract art with other pieces?
Mix and match within a cohesive colour palette. Abstract art pairs beautifully with photography, minimalist prints, or line drawings. Keep framing consistent for a unified look, or vary frame colours to add depth and dimension.

Explore Our Abstract Wall Art Prints

Abstract wall art allows you to decorate intuitively, choosing pieces that speak to your personal sense of balance, mood, and creativity. Whether you prefer the energy of gestural brushwork or the calm precision of geometric design, there is an abstract print to match every interior style.

Each piece in our Abstract Wall Art Prints collection is handcrafted in Australia with ❤️ using sustainably sourced solid timber frames and finished with gallery grade acrylic. Every artwork is made to last, designed to inspire, and backed by our lifetime guarantee

Explore our full range today to find framed prints that reflect your style, your space, and the moments that matter most. 

Jared Davis
About the author:

Jared Davis

Master Certified Picture Framer®, Writer, Educator

Jared is published author, writer and an industry-recognised educator with over 30 years' experience. He teaches classes and workshops on topics including conservation methods and techniques for handling photos and artworks, to professional picture framers all around the world.

www.jareddavis.com.au


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