ASTRACT art is generally considered non-figurative or non-representational art as opposed to traditional art forms. Basically, abstraction can be divided into geometrical abstraction such as the works of Piet Mondrian or biomorphic abstraction such as in the works of Jackson Pollock from the Abstract Expressionist school of New York in the ’50s.

Abstract art was first pioneered by the Russian-born painter Wassily Kadinsky around 1910 to 1913 and by the Russian avant-garde movement "Constructivism" pioneered by Tatlin.

Kadinsky attempted to create a visual equivalent of musical expression as his idea for abstract art. Since then modernists from Picasso to Donald Judd have explored various stylistic development with abstraction from cubism, abstract expressionism, kinetic art, colour field abstraction and minimalism.

"In abstract expressionist art, the emphasis is on gestural action of the brushstrokes, colour, mood, space, movement and composition to evoke emotion and meanings in the work," said abstract artist Tajuddin Ismail.

Other local artists, whose works can come in this category, are Latiff Mohideen, Syed Ahmad Jamal, Jolly Koh, Sharifah Fatimah Zubir, Lai Tong, Awang Damit and Yusof Ghani.

Because of its universal appeal, abstract art has become a classic contemporary style, practised by many contemporary artists globally. Despite its universality, each artist is considered unique due to the signature style in their approach towards abstraction.

TJ Fine Art gallery is holding an exhibition titled Small Works featuring works by Tajuddin, Sharifah Fatimah, Awang Damit and Abe Akira.

What is unique here is the space in which the artists work on.

"Abstract artists usually work on a big space that is, generally speaking, five feet both vertically and horizontally. However, this time, each artist works within a very small space. This poses a big challenge," said Tajuddin.

He added that abstract artists depend on gesture.

"You basically want people to feel the splash and energy of the painting. Most abstract artists work on the floor."

Indeed, the works at Small Works have been scaled down.

"In a way, it evokes an intimate feeling. On a big scale, the work becomes more ‘public’," said Awang.

Awang’s works are mainly based on "raga", a Bruneian term for hot winds. He found the theme interesting since raga "can affect the livelihood of fisherman."

Small Works is currently on display at TJ Fine Art, D.08G Plaza Damas in Jalan Sri Hartamas 1, Kuala Lumpur. It ends on Thursday.

Viewing hours are from noon to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Call 03-6201-4718.