Battersea Spring: The Abstract Guide

Attention all abstract aficionados, we’ve just made the search for your next dream artwork easy with our Abstract Guide.

Since its ideation in the early twentieth century, abstract art has been a point of both intrigue and inspiration. Whether it refers to sculpture, painting or prints, ‘abstract’ can be defined as non-figurative representation. All your favourite abstract artists will focus on colour, shapes, texture, composition and line work, all with the aim of producing work that provokes an emotional response. So, if this sounds right up your alley, our dedicated ‘Abstract Guide’ through our fair is a surefire way to discover an artwork that will excite your senses and look extraordinarily good in your home.

Time to follow our route for art finding success.

1. NewingerART, Stand C4

Amongst all the excitement of the fair, our Abstract Tour starts with a soothing exhale from Caspar Jansen’s textural works. Inspired by the colours of Majorca – the Mediterranean oasis where he lives – his paintings evoke positivity, clarity and natural influence. From his studio in Santanyi, Caspar mixes up his painting techniques by differing structure, material and depth so that the colours can shine.

NewingerART will be showcasing new works by Caspar at their stand. Not to be missed for those seeking artworks of the abstract persuasion. This is also the perfect time to invest in Caspar’s paintings as, after a forthcoming collaboration with a big-name jewellery company drops, you’ll be seeing his name a lot more. His artworks definitely lean on the side of meditative, or immersive, so beginning your route through our fair with Newinger Art will set you up with a clear mind for art buying success!

2. Art Friend, Stand C9

The artists you’ll find at Art Friend’s stand showcase cutting-edge talent in an eclectic range of styles and mediums, but we wanted to give their abstract offerings a special shout out.

First up is James Wilson, who made his name during lockdown curating a sellout solo and group exhibition in his own home, which collectors could view digitally. Since then, he has gone on to sell his work at many established galleries across the UK. Working predominantly in paint on layered surfaces constructed from cardboard and wood, James’ approach is influenced by a love of British Constructivism and Japanese motifs (echoing his own mixed heritage) which contribute to his ongoing fascination with visual rhythm, contrast and negative space.

Marcus Aitken is an artist that Art Friend have had their eyes on for a while, and they are so excited to be able to show his work at our Battersea fair. Marcus is a contemporary artist with a background in design that has helped to give his abstract works an edge. A trip to Art Friend’s stand is an essential for abstract inspo. Especially as Marcus will be releasing a brand new, never-seen-before series of work especially for the Affordable Art Fair!

3. Gina Cross Art + Design, Stand F6

For those wanting to add some photography to their collection, Christine’s work is ideal. The fiery orange and on-brand Affordable Art Fair pink make a perfect pairing for enlivening your walls at home. Hung loud and proud in a central space, an artwork by Christine is sure to make a statement, creating an atmosphere of inspiration, invigoration and strength through the power of colour psychology. Definitely not one to miss.   

Hop around the corner into row F to find Gina Cross Art + Design’s stand, which is set to be a must-see spot for colour obsessives and maximalist collectors. The bold, bright work of their artists is sure to impress, and we’re particularly excited to highlight the work of abstract artist Christine Wilkinson.

4. Artdog London, Stand I7

An Affordable Art Fair favourite, Lisa Henshall’s work will be presented by Artdog London this Spring. Inspired heavily by the natural world around her, Lisa takes aspects, pigments and shapes from her surroundings and converts them into large, beautiful abstract paintings. Her ‘Buoys in the Bay’ series is sure to draw visitors in with their depth and soothing, cool earth tones. The layering work is perhaps our favourite element, with the dripping acrylic paint adding to the feel of flowing water.

5. First Contemporary, Stand K4

A trip to First Contemporary’s stand is only around the corner, but you’ll find yourself transported to European bliss through Elaine Jones’ latest collection of works inspired by a recent road trip.

Cool, absorbing and slightly ethereal, we think Elaine’s artworks are born for the triptych life. Expanded on from the sketches she made during her trip, her paintings offer a firm, energetic sense of place. Colour is hugely important to Elaine, which is perfect for the colour-conscious collector. Look out for her signature blue palette, as well as warmer tones creeping into her Atlantic backdrops. We can’t wait to see the full selection that First Contemporary will be bringing.

6. Lara Bowen Contemporary, Stand G3

For vibrant seascape and sunset vibes to get you through to summer, Lara Bowen Contemporary’s stand offers up Sophie Abbott’s work as a sunshine-filled solution. Her largescale, vividly colourful paintings have a feeling of spontaneity that’s immediately striking. Colour lovers, beware: you might just find a new obsession. Though Sophie hints at a darkness underneath, her palette choices always bring an energy that will lighten up any room.

Spend a few minutes longer here to spy the work of Lara Bowen herself, whose abstract botanicals evoke so much emotion through their use of colour. It’s colour queen central at stand G3.  

7. After Nyne Contemporary, Stand G4

After Nyne Contemporary’s stand will be an abstract artwork haven. With works from Michel Delgado, Wolffia Inc and Robert Moya (just to name a few!), their main focus as a gallery is showcasing extraordinary, contemporary abstract art.

We’re particularly excited to explore DomEnica Brockman’s collection, whose work explores geometry, surface and texture. Born in the US, but having been raised in various African countries, Dominica has a passion for textile influences and sensual colour.

Her ‘Spectrum 7/22’ encaustic painting will be a surefire highlight for those seeking to add a new abstract artwork to their home collection.

Phew! Our wild ride through curated abstract heaven is over. Hopefully you will have spotted an artwork to fall in love with. Abstract works are traditionally the most popular with our visitors, so it’s safe to say: our galleries will be bringing their abstract A-game. Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to snag a new piece. Tickets are live!

Main image: A visitor admiring the work of Simone Brewster at Affordable Art Fair Battersea Autumn 2022.