Types of Art Styles Are the Different Ways Artists Express Creativity
Types of art styles are the different ways artists express ideas, emotions, and stories through visual art.
Types of art styles include realism, abstract, impressionism, cubism, surrealism, contemporary art, folk art, digital art, and many more. Each style has its own techniques, purpose, and visual language, and beginners should explore multiple styles to discover what suits them best.
Types of Art Styles Every Beginner Artist Should Know
Art is not just about drawing or painting; it is about expression, perspective, and creativity. Understanding different approaches to art helps beginner artists develop their skills, build confidence, and choose a clear direction for their artistic journey. Whether you are learning art as a hobby or planning to turn it into a profession, having clarity about styles gives you a strong foundation.
In this detailed guide, we will explore the most important types of art styles, explain them in simple language, and help beginners decide which direction to start with.
Why Understanding Art Styles Is Important for Beginners
Before learning advanced techniques, every artist should understand why styles matter in art education and growth.
They help you identify your personal artistic voice
They improve creativity and experimentation
They guide you in choosing the right tools and mediums
They help buyers and audiences understand your work
If you are ever confused about what to draw or paint, exploring different types of art styles can give you unlimited inspiration. You can also explore art inspiration ideas for artists to expand your imagination and visual thinking.
1. Realism Art Style
Realism is one of the most traditional and widely practiced forms of art. This style focuses on depicting subjects exactly as they appear in real life.
Key Characteristics:
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Accurate proportions and details
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Focus on light, shadow, and texture
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Minimal imagination, maximum observation
Best for beginners?
Yes. Realism helps beginners improve observation, shading, and drawing accuracy and is often the starting point for many artists learning the types of art styles.
2. Abstract Art Style
Abstract art does not aim to represent reality. Instead, it uses shapes, colors, and forms to express ideas or emotions.
Key Characteristics:
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No strict rules
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Focus on feelings and concepts
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Open to interpretation
Abstract art is one of the most liberating types of art styles, especially for artists who enjoy freedom and experimentation.
3. Impressionism Art Style
Impressionism captures the overall mood of a scene rather than fine details. It originated in the 19th century and remains popular today.
Key Characteristics:
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Visible brush strokes
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Emphasis on light and movement
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Outdoor scenes and daily life
This approach helps beginners learn color observation and atmosphere while understanding historical types of art styles.
4. Expressionism Art Style
Expressionism focuses on emotions rather than realistic representation. Artists often distort shapes and colors to communicate feelings.
Key Characteristics:
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Bold colors
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Emotional themes
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Distorted forms
Among modern types of art styles, expressionism is powerful for emotional storytelling and personal expression.
5. Cubism Art Style
Cubism breaks objects into geometric shapes and presents them from multiple angles within a single composition.
Key Characteristics:
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Sharp lines and geometric forms
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Fragmented structures
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Abstract representation
Cubism is one of the more complex types of art styles, but learning it improves creative thinking and composition skills.
6. Surrealism Art Style
Surrealism blends dreams and reality to create imaginative and often mysterious visuals.
Key Characteristics:
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Dream-like imagery
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Unexpected combinations
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Strong symbolism
Many iconic artworks belong to this category of types of art styles, making it appealing for artists who enjoy storytelling through imagination.
7. Contemporary Art Style
Contemporary art reflects modern society, ideas, and current issues. It includes mixed media, installations, and digital formats.
Key Characteristics:
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Modern themes
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Freedom of medium
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Concept-driven work
Among current types of art styles, contemporary art offers endless creative freedom and innovation.
8. Folk Art Style
Folk art represents cultural traditions and heritage. In India, this includes Madhubani, Warli, Gond, and Pattachitra.
Key Characteristics:
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Cultural storytelling
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Traditional patterns
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Bright and symbolic colors
Folk art remains one of the most meaningful types of art styles, especially for artists inspired by culture and tradition.
9. Digital Art Style
Digital art is created using software, tablets, and computers, making it highly flexible and widely used today.
Key Characteristics:
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Created using digital tools
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Easy editing and experimentation
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Popular in modern creative careers
Digital art is among the fastest-growing types of art styles in the global art industry.
10. Minimalist Art Style
Minimalism focuses on simplicity, clarity, and strong visual balance.
Key Characteristics:
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Limited color palette
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Clean compositions
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Strong conceptual focus
This approach teaches balance and design principles within the broader types of art styles.
How to Choose the Right Art Style as a Beginner
With so many types of art styles, beginners often feel confused. Here are simple tips:
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Try at least 3–5 styles
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Observe what excites you the most
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Don’t rush specialization
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Practice consistently
If your goal is to grow professionally, learning how to become a successful artist will help you align your art style with long-term success.
Practicing Art Styles as a Beginner
Practice is the key to growth. Start small, stay consistent, and allow yourself to experiment.
You can:
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Sketch daily
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Study master artworks
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Create style-based challenges
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Use beginner-friendly ideas
For daily practice inspiration, explore 30 aesthetic drawing ideas for beginners and artists.
Types of Art Styles and Career Opportunities
Different types of art styles open different creative career paths:
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Realism → Portrait artist, illustrator
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Abstract → Gallery artist, modern décor creator
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Digital → Freelancer, concept artist, designer
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Folk art → Cultural exhibitions, handmade art business
Understanding styles helps you match your creative skills with the right audience.
Earn More About Art Styles (External Resource)
For a broader global perspective, you can also explore this detailed guide on types of art styles list that explains art styles with historical context.
FAQs About Art Styles
What are the main styles of art?
They include realism, abstract, impressionism, expressionism, cubism, surrealism, contemporary, folk, and digital art.
Which art style is best for beginners?
Realism, minimalist art, and folk art are beginner-friendly and easy to practice.
Can artists mix different styles?
Yes. Many modern artists combine multiple approaches to create unique artwork.
How long does it take to master an art style?
It depends on consistency, practice, and dedication rather than time alone.
Final Thoughts
Understanding types of art styles is one of the most important steps in an artist’s journey. As a beginner, do not limit yourself too early. Explore freely, experiment boldly, and enjoy learning.
The more you understand creative styles, the closer you get to discovering your true artistic identity. ✨
