What I have discovered is the biggest problem with abstract art is that most people who do actually take the time to stop and look at paintings, do not understand abstract works and therefore do not care for them. Like poetry, reading abstract art requires some skill and some practice. So instead of encouraging you to run right out and sign up for "Modern Art 101" here's a little guide to dispel your fears and encourage you to . . . perhaps . . . see things in a new way.

1. THINK METAPHORICALLY
If you can't get this one down, I WOULD highly recommend you either enroll in the aforementioned class or involve yourself in a fundamentalist Christian group that crushes metaphor on a regular basis. Before going to a gallery to make some viewings I would suggest repeating a litany of clever little ditties to warm up. Such as:
a. A teacup is to a saucer as a red blob is to . . .
B. A boat is to water as a yellow triangle is to . . .
C. A mama is to a papa as a brown smear is to . . .

2. FEEL COLOR
Since most works rely on color to evoke a mood or reaction from the viewer, this can be a highly personal experience and can therefore exempt the artist from any "real" justification for his or her works. Notice how the colors work together or against one another. This relationship of color usually supports a specific idea the artist is trying to get across. I said, "usually."

3. HOW DOES THE WORK REPRESENT SPACE?
Notice how the piece uses objects to represent or challenge our sense of space (see Paul Klee). Are the objects a product of an LSD experience or constipation (as in the case of M.C. Escher)? Focus on the fact that you are standing in front of, gaping at someone's VISION, not just a two dimensional piece of fabric with some chemical solvents randomly placed on it (or a three-dimensional object with . . . et al).

4. WHAT DOES THE WORK REMIND YOU OF?
Thinking metaphorically plays a big part in this. So if you HAVE put the zine down and are on your way to your Lit. Class then hooray for you. Come back to this in six months.

Abstract works take a little more involvement from the viewer. They are very greedy that way. They demand your concentration (If you are trying, that is).

Ultimately, some works are clique - ish. You may only get the joke if you understand technique (see Matisse) and you understand the spoof or irony. That's o k a y but that method of creating art makes the art very secular. The purpose of any art should be for all people (not just artists) to enjoy a connection to some piece of work because art is such a significant part of our culture (whether you choose to participate or not) and our culture is about who we are and what mark we will leave on history. Consequently, Art becomes a mirror for who we are.