What is abstraction?

Technologist uses Regia Art to help explain abstraction in computer programming: "Abstraction is a concept which facilitates to extract out the essential information of an object... In OOP ( Object Oriented Programming ) , Abstraction facilitates the easy conceptualization of real world objects into the software program.... In Art, Abstract Art is a kind of art, which depicts the distilled form of the world". [Read more at My Mind Leaks]

"Abstract artists select and then exaggerate or simplify the forms suggested by the world around them." [from Artcyclopedia]

Art Quote:
"The more abstract is form, the more clear and direct its appeal."
Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944), Russian painter.

Modernism?
# expressing feelings, ideas, fantasies, and dreams instead of the visual world we otherwise see
# creating abstractions, rather than representing what is real
# a use of choppy, clearly visible brushstrokes
# the acceptance of line, form, color, and process as valid subject matter by themselves
# a requirement that the audience take a more active role as interpreter. Each viewer must observe carefully, and get information about the artist's intentions and environment, before forming judgments about the work. [from Artcyclopedia]

Acrylic paints?
Synthetic paints, with pigments dispersed in a synthetic vehicle made from polymerized acrylic acid esters, the most important
of which is polymethyl methacrylate. First used by artists in the late 1940s, their use has come to rival that of oil paints because of their
versatility. They can be used on nearly any surface, in transparent washes or heavy impasto, with matte, semi-gloss, or glossy finishes. Acrylic paints dry quickly, do not yellow, are easily removed with mineral spirits or turpentine (use acetone if those don't remove enough), and can clean up with soap and water. [from Artcyclopedia]
Example:(on the top right) Regia Marinho, Cambists, 2004 24x30 inches acrylic on canvas.

Contemporary?
Current, belonging to the same period of time. Usually referring to our present time, but can refer to being current with any specified time. [from Artcyclopedia]

Canvas?
Commonly used as a support a swatch of canvasfor oil or acrylic painting, canvas is a heavy woven fabric made of flax or cotton. [from Artcyclopedia]

Its surface is typically prepared for painting by priming with a ground.

Stretcher Bars?
Wooden slats that are made to fit together. Each stretcher bar is one side of the canvas. Premade stretcher bars are available or you can make your own. [from studiochalkboard.com]