Black & White Brush Stroke Art

I have been a fan of abstract, brush stroke art since all of my Art History courses in college.  The black & white variety inspired by artist Franz Kline have literally been popping up everywhere over the past few years & I simply can’t get enough.
Franz Kline. Le Gros. 1961
Franz Kline “Le Gros” 1961
Franz Kline. Chief. 1950
Franz Kline “Chief” 1950
Franz Kline. Untitled (Study for Mahoning II). 1960
Franz Kline “Untitled” 1960
The graphic nature of these Abstract Paintings can easily lend themselves towards any decor.  They are chic, classic & will always be a great addition to any art collection.  I love the use of the bold painting against this turquoise wall.  It is a standout piece, but still acts as a great backdrop allowing the decorative items to show through.

Hallway - A piece of black-and-white art above a white console
image via Lonny
I decided it was time to jump on the 60 year old trend & got out my paintbrush.  I have mentioned we were recently given a huge lot of antiques.  This included furniture, lamps & some artwork.  The artwork was not anything we were truly in love with (or otherwise valuable) but I did fall in love with one of the frames!  It contained a painting on canvas that had been damaged.  I simply taped off the frame, primed the original surface (which provided a great texture for my new painting) & started getting artsy!  The great thing about abstract art is you can’t do anything wrong.  Make it as simple or complex as you wish.  And if you don’t like it… simply paint over it & start again.  I find it relaxing.
I started with this image as my inspiration… It’s always good to start with an image if you are feeling stuck.
And this is my attempt… and I must say I am quite pleased with the graphic outcome.
I was planning to use this for our bedroom vertically, but after placing the artwork on top of our green chest, it hasn’t moved.  It appears to be quite content in it’s new home.
And the great news for those of you rolling your eye’s while reading this thinking “yeah right!? Like I can paint that!” (you really can) Similar inspired prints are now available at West Elm!  No need to get out your artist’s brush & beret, just your wallet.  But the investment isn’t that bad, they run from $69.99 to $124.99… but mine was free… you might want to try it first!
Abstract Black + White Wall Art