What is Non-representational Art?

Non-representational art, also called abstract art, does not attempt to depict recognizable objects, figures, or scenes from the visible world. Instead, it uses color, form, line, and texture to create compositions that exist purely as visual experiences. While distinct from Surrealism (which often depicts recognizable but impossible scenes), some Surrealist automatism techniques produce non-representational results. Abstract Surrealism bridges these approaches, using non-representational forms to evoke unconscious content. Understanding the distinction helps place different surrealist approaches within broader art historical context.