Collecting Geometric Art - All You Need to Know

Are you familiar with geometric art? Whether you’re intrigued by the expressive lines of Wassily Kandinsky, or the relationship between shapes and colours as per Piet Mondrian's works, geometric art is where you’ll find all the elements you need to make a straightforward yet eye-catching artwork to suit any space.

For this reason, geometric art continues to be popular today especially with the variety of options available on the market, which makes it easy to develop a curious eye towards these unique compositions. Why not buy geometric art with The Artling’s guide that will help you take that next – or maybe even your first! – step on your collecting journey?

What is geometric art?

Geometric art, better known as geometric abstract art, makes use of geometric forms such as shapes and lines, along with colours, to contrast realistic art which attempts to imitate nature as closely as possible. Seen in famous styles such as Pablo Picasso’s Cubist artworks – with their abstraction of human figures – the use of geometric forms in art rejects the notion of having to situate one’s compositions within objective reality.

Some elements that commonly appear in geometric artworks include straight and curved lines, as well as squares, circles and triangles, which are then arranged in an abstract manner to highlight the two-dimensionality of the medium. Geometric art, being a form of abstract art, is considered to be non-representational, and these artworks have been present since ancient times as motifs in religious artworks and even decorative ware!

The history of geometric art

Geometric art formally began in 1915, when Russian artist Kazimir Malevich invented suprematism – a style of abstract art that placed central importance on the purity of feeling and ideals of spirituality. Inspired by art movements such as impressionism, symbolism and expressionism, Malevich simplified the elements in his paintings until all that remained were what he deemed the essentials: geometric shapes and sparse colours filled his repertoire.

The development of abstract art in the 20th century would then see artists such as Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky pushing the boundaries of what geometric art could be. For Klee and Kandinsky, the Bauhaus movement was pertinent in helping them develop their own compositional laws that served as a contrast to the canon of objective art – this can be observed in their tendency towards fluidity and movement as opposed to the works of Malevich.

Then came the De Stijl movement in 1917 by Piet Mondrian and Theo van Doesburg, who, like their predecessors, valued the most basic of elements in art. However, the two embraced a fresh approach to geometric art by introducing primary colours (i.e. red, blue and yellow) to their shapes and lines; at the same time, they explored other forms of art such as interior design and even typography in an effort to translate their ideology across various mediums.

Geometric art thus became a medium for experimentation at the time, and brought about a freedom to invent new ways of appreciating art. Today, the influence of geometric art is certainly unmistakable in contemporary graphic design with the use of lines, shapes and colours to make a visual statement.

What makes geometric art so unique?

Compared to more realistic art styles such as figurative art, geometric art may appear less exciting due to the reduction of artistic elements down to the very basics. In geometric art, there is no longer a focus on perspective to portray a scene out of reality, and instead, the artist organizes their compositions in line with an idea that is then translated to the viewer in an abstract way.

To understand geometric art, you can think of them in this manner – geometric artworks are unique because of the effect that they leave on the viewer, whether it's a moment of peace as you meditate on the purity of colour, or the pattern of lines and shapes intersecting with one another that helps to inspire you in your daily activities.

Geometric art is also easy to appreciate, and can be a great way to get the attention of the whole family. As such, they are perfect for shared spaces where you can wind down and sit with your loved ones after a long day.

Choosing the right geometric artwork for your space

Geometric artworks can be all you need to brighten up a room or add a quirky touch to it, depending on what you're looking to achieve. To begin with, it’s important to understand the space you are working with, as your choice can either bring your walls to life or throw off the balance of your interiors!

To choose the right geometric artwork that will suit your space, do your research and decide what style of geometric art you are most drawn to. This could be anything from a minimalist piece of geometric art if you want something more understated, to one with pop sensibilities, boasting a splash of colour to complement your furnishings. 

Next, take a look at your space and decide on the type of mood you want to create. For example, do you want an artwork that is larger in size for a more dramatic feel, taking up an entire wall on its own, or one that is smaller in size with a mix of shapes and colours as a fun backdrop to your dining area?

Keep in mind, though, that everyone's taste is different, and that's true when it comes to geometric art – so follow your gut! Enjoy the process of selecting your artworks to see which fits best, and don't hesitate to speak to our expert curators at The Artling if you're having trouble deciding.

How to showcase your geometric art?

Consider your lighting options

When you are choosing the type of lighting you want to have to showcase your geometric artwork, know that the right choice can bring out all the details and colours that would otherwise be obscured by your space's natural lighting conditions depending on where you intend to display it. However, do note that you should not display your artworks out in direct natural light as the UV rays may damage the pigments and prints in your artwork. You can instead opt for artificial lighting with various options such as track lights, wall washers and picture lights as add-ons.

Select a durable frame

Selecting a frame for your geometric artwork not only involves selecting the right colour and size but also making sure it is of the right material, especially if you have purchased a print – these types of artworks are more delicate and require extra care to ensure they last a long time in your space. When choosing a frame, ensure that all of the elements such as the framing glass and mounting board are of good quality and feel durable. 

Hang your artworks the right way

Finally, you've chosen the right lighting to showcase your artworks along with a sturdy frame to protect and keep it in place. Now, for the fun part – hanging your artwork! As seen in many contemporary galleries and museums, a rule of thumb is to hang your artworks at around a height of 1.55 meters from the center of the artwork to the floor. This is crucial as it allows for an eye-level view of the piece, though you should take a walk around your space and readjust accordingly as this will change depending on the size of your artwork. 

Geometric artworks that are trending now

Angelica Tcherassi

Born in Colombia, Angelica Tcherassi's striking blend of colours and geometric forms – each one computer-generated! – have earned her countless features in renowned design magazines all around the world. Consider these hues that come in various configurations for a vibrant touch to your space, and, presenting a visual respite from digital life, you'll never tire of them no matter the day.

Christian Ovís

With a keen eye for sleek geometries, Christian Ovís' expertly-devised artworks certainly pay homage to the masters – Piet Mondrian would be proud. Consider these geometric artworks if you're seeking a more classic look, or if you find yourself intrigued by the dynamic shapes and colours that seem to reveberate on the canvas. 

Jean-Marc Teillon

French artist Jean-Marc Teillon's spare geometric artworks may appear simple at first, but look closely and you'll notice the details that make each piece truly one of a kind. Painstakingly rendered to form blocks of pure texture in striking colour combinations, these artworks are ideal for corporate spaces where subtetly is of utmost importance without giving up on style.

Ronald Hunter

Inspired by graphic art and typography, Rotterdam-based artist and designer Ronald Hunter combines his interest in colour and texture through his unique layering technique that celebrates the versatility of geometric shapes. Whether you're searching for an artwork for your home or your office, Hunter's works express a certain fluidity in motion to bring any space to life.

Radhika Choudhary

Based in New Delhi, abstract artist Radhika Choudhary's artworks showcase a deeply personal design language based upon strict calculations and geometries. Much like the works of Kazimir Malevich, these artworks will appeal to those who are, first and foremost, interested in the "magic of colours and shapes".

Final thoughts 

The best art is timeless, and that’s something to be promised with geometric art which not only pleases the eye but is also versatile. If you've decided to enter this colourful world of shapes and lines and collect geometric art, you've come to the right place – the options are endless, but each one is sure to spark joy whether you're entertaining guests at home or relaxing in your office space. With geometric art, there's truly something for everyone.

Click here to view our full geometric art collection!