Let go of the idea that the artwork has some inherent meaning. Especially, let go of the idea that there is a specific meaning that you are supposed to figure out, and if you don’t then you’re not ”getting it”. (The art may have meant something to the artist, but you don’t need to know about it.)

Ignore what anyone else has said, or might be currently saying about the art. Remember, art is subjective and no two people will experience it the same way. This is about You having a unique experience!

Look at the art. Take note of details like, colors, textures, shapes, and the relationships of those things to each other. Get really close, and then back up as far as you can. Just notice stuff.

As you are looking at the artwork, pay attention to any thoughts that pop into your head, or any feelings, or sensations. Watch what your mind is doing, is it trying to find familiar associations, or something relatable to the ”real world”? Are you reminded of anything? How is your mind adjusting to this unusual visual information? Notice how you feel and see if you can figure out why.

Let go of judgement. Unless you are actively looking to buy a piece of art, then this isn’t about judging whether or not you would hang it on your wall.

Stay with this process for a few minutes, regardless of whether your experience is pleasant or not. Unless your experience is so negative that it’s making you nauseous, or you just can’t continue looking at it, hang in there.

Looking at abstract images can activate the subconscious, and by spending time looking at abstract art, and noticing your thought process, you have an opportunity to learn more about yourself.

Related post: Why Abstract Art?