What is contemporary art and how to use it in your design?

Key characteristics of the contemporary art.

There are many ways to define contemporary art, and there are countless art forms and styles within the subcategory to dive into. But beyond the use of brilliant colour combinations, varied textures, or perhaps unusual material usage, in its most fundamental form contemporary art can be identified by four key characteristics.

Abstract

Contemporary art uses abstract imagery in its composition. Traditional art attempts to depict its subject or topic in recognisable ways, but abstract art plays with unconventional shapes, colours and materials to represent the obscure about the subject of discussion.

Experimental

Contemporary art is about throwing away the old methods or repurposing them in a new capacity. Contemporary artists are experimental and embraces new ideas and techniques.

Creates conversations

Art has always been crafted to create conversations and shine the light on a subject or topic worth talking about. It is often provocative or controversial. Contemporary art takes on some of the biggest themes of the time, from poverty to sexism and climate change.

Utilises new tools

Contemporary art uses tools that haven’t traditionally been used in the art world. It plays with an array of senses, from sound and smell to sight. Whether it’s through a brush and a canvas or perhaps a sculpture, artists have found ways to incorporate unusual elements into their designs. Technology, like Adobe Express’ Firefly generative AI, can play a critical part in today’s contemporary art landscape.

Take a look at these templates perfect for contemporary wall art.

Editable contemporary poster examples for your wall.

Adobe Express features a huge variety of free-to-use poster templates which you can edit and customise to create contemporary wall art. Contemporary art can serve as fantastic inspiration when creating your designs.

Experiment with your quote posters

Adobe’s quote poster templates can help you to collate your favourite quotes from fiction and non-fiction. Look for contemporary art imagery that can represent the meaning behind the quote and use that powerful symbolism in your designs and unconventional shapes, colour combinations and styles to truly make your poster stand out.

Get abstract with your movie posters

Adobe Express’ film poster templates will help you celebrate your favourite films with the use of contemporary art. While traditionally film posters will feature shots of the cast and iconic scenes, you can customise the template to try something a little different. Reflect on the colours, sounds and shapes you associate with the film and convey the story on your poster using abstract elements.

Discover poster templates that you can customise.