Formal abstraction refers to the process of simplifying or generalizing something by focusing on its basic elements or structure. It involves removing unnecessary details to create a concise and simplified representation. Full definition
His increasing awareness of the dull effect of formal abstraction led him to integrate irregular vertical panels within broad bands of contrasting shades into his work. (ideelart.com)
But I hope another motivation for formal abstraction is still possible. (bombmagazine.org)
Where Close makes paintings that are nearly all face, John Coplans, who died last August at 83, detailed his aging flesh in headless, black - and - white self - portrait photographs that also function as formal abstractions. (artnews.com)