ARTmonday: 24 Black & White Abstract Artworks

That just a few strokes of black paint on a white canvas can have such impact, provokes a sense of wonder. It could be bold colorblocking, some simple swirls, or seemingly carefree scratches. Well executed black & white abstract artworks use so little (but really so much), to present themselves as elegant and evocative.

I always admire black & white abstract artworks when I see them, most often in highly designed spaces in interior design magazines. A bit over two years ago I posted “Montage: 64 Rooms with Black and White Art,” showing room after room featuring black & white abstract artworks.

As I mentioned then, I find myself hesitating when confronted with purchasing such simple work, but really the payback is huge. You might think you could make that yourself, but you didn’t, and really, you couldn’t. Sure, you might be able to copy the piece, if you know which mediums to use and how to manipulate the materials, but as with fashion, it’s the most simple designs that are the most genius.

Here are 24 black & white abstract artworks, from masters that include Jean Arp, Josef Albers, and Jasper Johns, as well as less (or little) known contemporary artists.

Antoine Puisais

Brice Marden

David Band

Alan Johnston • Bartha Contemporary

Jean Arp

Richard Serra

Victor Pasmore • Laing Art Gallery

Bernar Venet