Abstract Expression

Abstract art

Lola Donoghue is an Irish artist living and working in Galway, in the West of Ireland. She graduated at the top of her class with a first class honors degree in Fine Art (Painting) from Limerick School of Art and Design. Imbued with a painterly, ethereal quality, her work is characterized by a predominantly white-on-white palette, layered with a mix of muted colours and splashes of bright neon. Her work is light and fresh and the compositions are a delicate balance of intricate linear forms and concentrated layers of colour.

There is something about abstract art that is very unique. It gives us the freedom to understand and interpret it in different ways. To you it might mean something different than to me. Rachael Wardle from Ohwhatsthis.com introduces two very unique abstract art resources.

PICTOCLUB

One of my absolute favourites for abstract art is Pictoclub (below). I love what they are doing. Pictoclub is a revolutionary art gallery, in which you choose the painting and then an artist hand paints it exclusively for you, in the size, format and framing you want. They are answering the growing demand of those who want to acquire art but do not want or cannot afford to invest a small fortune in a painting. Pictoclub make it possible to own original oil paintings without the usual hefty price tag.

Blocks Blue Canvas PaintingCannes 1. Canvas Painting

Hangover Art Print

PEYTIL

My second recommendation is Peytil, a Stockholm based art project founded by the designer and illustrator Eitil Thorén Due. His work reflects a graffiti-like spontaneity with focus on fashion illustrations and urban portraits. The style is inspired by fashion and the motifs are contemporary, the combination between classic painting and digital tools makes the paintings full of expression and contrast. One of my favourite pieces is the Hangover Art Print, which is a great example of how style and fashion elements are mixed with contemporary techniques. Moreover, the print is said to last between 80 - 100 years in good environmental conditions, if placed away from direct sunlight.

My tips:

1. FOCAL POINT OR DECOR Firstly, decide whether you want the art to be the focal point of the room or simply to complement the decor. This will help you choose your final selection. Art will always be a focal point, but it's up to you whether you want it to blend or pop.

2. SHAPE AND FORM Shape and form is just as important as colour with abstract art. If you want to make a room feel more expansive, fluid shapes or stripes help. You can then match furniture to the shapes for continuity across the room.

3. THE COLOUR LINK To strengthen abstract art, pick out the main colours and find accessories like cushions or a rug that matches the main colour.

4. LIGHTING If you're investing in an amazing abstract painting showcase it - you can do this with a picture light sconce to put your art in the spot light.

Rachael is the founder of Ohwhatsthis, an online marketplace featuring lifestyle independent designers and brands. All featured abstract art can be purchased on ohwhatsthis.com.

OHWHATSTHIS.COM | @O.W.T