Original Abstract Paintings for Sale

Mark Rothko, a pioneer of Abstract Expressionism, was born in Latvia in 1903 to a Jewish family. In 1913, his family emigrated to the United States and settled in Portland, Oregon, to escape the country's political turmoil. A bright student, Rothko graduated from high school with honors and went to Yale University on a scholarship. However, after two years, he left without completing his degree. He later moved to New York, where he began to study art and developed his early expressionist style.

In the 1930s, Rothko’s work gained recognition for its emotional depth and evolving themes, from urban life to mythology and mortality. The arrival of European Surrealists in New York during the Second World War led to the rise of Abstract Expressionism. Influenced by this shift, Rothko and his friend, Adolf Gottlieb, adapted abstraction to explore emotions and mystery through simplified forms. They believed art should be able to convey deep and complex ideas using minimal visual elements and literal depictions of the physical world. Rothko painted large rectangles to evoke a range of moods and messages to the viewer. This style became known as Color Field painting.

One of Rothko’s famous abstract paintings is Orange, Red, Yellow (1961), an artwork that radiates fire, passion, and vitality. In 2012, it sold for more than $86 million at Christie's, setting a record at the time for contemporary art.

Abstract art can make or break your room. Here are six common mistakes people make when decorating with original abstract artwork - and how to avoid them.

1. Not Knowing Your Style
Abstract art should reflect your personality and energy. Before buying, think about the style, color, and mood that resonate with you. Do you want a unique piece with bold colors, expressive strokes, or minimalist designs? Choose art based on your taste, not trends.

2. Picking the Wrong Size or Color
Your art’s size and color should match your room’s overall design. Oversized pieces can overwhelm a small room, while smaller paintings can get lost in a large space. Consider whether you want your paintings to complement or contrast with the existing colors, textures, and decor in your room. Your abstract wall art should also enhance the purpose of your space, whether it's your dining room, living room, or bedroom.

3. Using the Wrong Frame
A frame is an extension of your art. Choose one that does not compete with the style and color of your original abstract art. Avoid using ornate or heavy frames that clash with the modern look of your abstract art. Floating frames or gallery-style edges are ideal. If you decide to go frameless, make sure your paintings have clean edges.

4. Poor Placement
Conduct proper measuring and planning before hanging your art. Use painter’s tape to visualize the spot. Aim to place the center of your art at eye level. When hanging above furniture, position the piece about 6-10 inches above, and make sure it is centered relative to the furniture. Avoid hanging your art in places that get direct sunlight.

5. Treating Art as an Afterthought
When you hang art just to fill an empty space, it often feels disconnected from the room. Include art early in your design process, or thoughtfully choose one to avoid making mistakes. Use your creativity and imagination in choosing your decor. This will help make your space feel curated and personal.

6. Overlooking Online Galleries
Limiting yourself to a local gallery to find a perfect piece in person can restrict your options. Take advantage of online galleries that offer thousands of original abstract paintings. You can browse different sizes, subjects, and styles from the comfort of your home.

David Pincus was a prolific art collector and humanitarian. He was born to Belarusian immigrants in Philadelphia. After graduating from college, he joined Pincus Brothers Maxwell, a menswear manufacturing business owned by his family. Under the leadership of David and his brother, the company became a major player in the fashion industry, most notably producing suits for American designer Bill Blass.

With the success of their business, David and his wife, Geraldine, began collecting modern and abstract art. They acquired works from notable artists such as Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Mark Rothko. Among their prized collection was Rothko's Orange, Red, Yellow (1961), which set a record at an auction at Christie's in 2012.

After he died in 2011, David's family sold 38 artworks to continue funding their philanthropic causes, particularly the Pincus Family Foundation. They raised $180 million, which they used to support global initiatives in education, healthcare, and pediatric AIDS.