The Beginner’s Guide to Understanding Art Styles: How to recognize, appreciate, and collect with confidence
When stepping into the world of art collecting, it can feel overwhelming to navigate the different styles and terms. But don’t worry—you don’t need a degree in art history to develop a trained eye and a confident sense of taste. This guide will walk you through some of the most common art styles you'll encounter and what makes each one special.
1. Realism
Realism aims to depict subjects as they truly appear in life. Think detailed seascapes, portraits that capture personality, or landscapes that transport you to a real place.
You might love it if you’re drawn to traditional beauty, storytelling, and clear representation.
Look for: Fine brushwork, realistic light and shadows, and scenes you can instantly recognize.
View From The Dunes by Sarah Court - Summer by the Sea Collection 2025
2. Impressionism
Born in the late 1800s, Impressionism captures the feeling of a moment rather than the fine details. Brushstrokes are loose, colors are vibrant, and the energy is soft and fleeting—like sunlight on water or a breeze across the dunes.
You might love it if you're nostalgic, romantic, and moved by mood over precision.
Look for: Visible brushstrokes, a focus on light, and coastal or nature scenes.
Last Light by Heather Nagy - Summer by the Sea Collection 2025
3. Abstract
Abstract art steps away from reality and explores emotion, movement, and mood through shapes, colors, and textures. Sometimes bold, sometimes serene—abstract work invites personal interpretation.
You might love it if you're drawn to art that makes you feel something, even if you can’t explain it.
Look for: Non-representational forms, expressive color palettes, and emotional presence.
Sea of Tranquility by Pam Wingard - Summer by the Sea Collection 2025
4. Expressionism
Expressionism exaggerates colors and forms to convey intense emotion. While it may appear distorted or surreal, it’s rooted in the artist’s internal world—how they felt, not what they saw.
You might love it if you connect with art on an emotional or intuitive level.
Look for: Dramatic brushwork, strong contrasts, and emotional subject matter.
Image by Steve Johnson
5. Minimalism
Minimalist art simplifies down to the essentials. It might use soft washes of color, subtle textures, or clean lines. The goal isn’t to say less, but to say more with less.
You might love it if you enjoy calm, balanced spaces and thoughtful curation.
Look for: Negative space, neutral or monochrome palettes, and thoughtful simplicity.
Total Bliss, Laguna Beach by Kim Daw - Summer by the Sea Collection 2025
6. Coastal and Contemporary
Many collectors today are drawn to modern coastal art—a blend of relaxed elegance, inspired by nature, water, and sky. These works can be realistic, abstract, or a mix, but they always evoke peace and connection to place.
You might love it if your heart feels at home by the sea and you want your art to reflect that calm.
Look for: Soft blues, oceanic textures, and a blend of old-world charm with modern restraint.
Clouds of Summer by Diane Larson - Summer by the Sea Collection 2025
Final Thoughts
Understanding art styles doesn’t mean boxing in your taste—it’s about developing language around what you love. The more you explore, the more you'll see patterns in what moves you.
Whether you’re just beginning your collection or refining your eye, trust your gut. The best art style for you? It’s the one that makes you stop, breathe, and feel something.