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Non-representational: meaning, definitions and examples

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non-representational

[ ˌnɒnˌrɛprɪˌzɛntəˈeɪʃənəl ]

Adjective

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

art

Not representing any particular object or scene; abstract.

Synonyms

abstract, non-figurative, non-objective.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
non-representational	Typically used in the context of art to describe works that do not depict recognizable objects or subjects. The gallery featured a collection of non-representational paintings that emphasized shapes and colors over defined images
abstract	Used broadly in art and other fields to describe concepts or works that do not attempt to represent external reality, often focusing on basic elements like shapes, colors, and forms. She has a deep appreciation for abstract art, finding beauty in the interplay of colors and forms
non-objective	Used primarily in art to describe works that do not represent or depict any perceptible objects from the physical world, focusing instead on intrinsic elements like line, shape, and color. His non-objective paintings invite viewers to interpret meaning without looking for familiar forms
non-figurative	Specifically refers to art that does not represent recognizable figures or objects. Often used interchangeably with non-representational and non-objective. The sculptor's non-figurative pieces are celebrated for their innovative use of space and materials

Examples of usage

The artist's work was characterized by its non-representational style.
The painting was non-representational, leaving the interpretation up to the viewer.

Translations

Translations of the word "non-representational" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não representacional

🇮🇳 गैर-प्रतिनिधित्वात्मक

🇩🇪 nicht-repräsentativ

🇮🇩 tidak representasional

🇺🇦 нерепрезентативний

🇵🇱 nieprzedstawiający

🇯🇵 非表現的

🇫🇷 non représentatif

🇪🇸 no representacional

🇹🇷 temsil etmeyen

🇰🇷 비재현적인

🇸🇦 غير تمثيلي

🇨🇿 nereprezentativní

🇸🇰 nereprezentatívny

🇨🇳 非具象的

🇸🇮 nereprezentativen

🇮🇸 ekki fulltrúi

🇰🇿 репрезентативті емес

🇬🇪 არარეპრეზენტაციული

🇦🇿 nümayəndəli olmayan

🇲🇽 no representativo

Etymology

The term 'non-representational' emerged in the early 20th century in the context of modern art movements such as abstract expressionism and cubism. Artists sought to move away from traditional representational art, focusing instead on conveying emotions, concepts, or elements of form through non-representational means. This shift marked a significant departure from the realistic depictions of the world seen in earlier art movements.