The Endless Embrace: Symbolism of the Circle in Abstract Art

Circles have appeared in my work for as long as I can remember.

They’re one of those things I really think I should move on from, but still just keep cropping up! So I’ve been looking into circles and their symbolism in modern art – in the hope I can work out why I just can’t let them go!

1.     Unity and Wholeness

At its core, the circle embodies the idea of unity and wholeness. It’s a closed shape with no beginning or end, representing a sense of completeness and perfection. In abstract art, circles often serve as a visual metaphor for the holistic nature of life, nature , or the universe itself.

2.     Infinite Cycles

Circles are often linked to the cyclical nature of existence. They can symbolise the eternal cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth. Artists use circles to convey the idea that life is a continuous journey, where every ending is a new beginning.

3.     Harmony and Balance

The balanced symmetry of a circle brings a sense of harmony to abstract compositions. Artists use circular forms to create a pleasing visual balance within their artwork. This balance can represent inner peace or equilibrium, transcending the chaos of the external world.

4.     Boundaries and Inclusivity

Circles also serve as boundaries, enclosing elements within their curves. They can be seen as symbols of protection, encapsulating what’s important and keeping out what’s unwanted. Conversely, they can symbolise inclusivity, welcoming and embracing all that falls within their embrace.

5.     Cosmic Connection

In many abstract works, circles evoke a cosmic connection. They resemble celestial bodies, planets and orbits, suggesting a connection between earth and space. Circles can signify our place in the universe and lead us to contemplate its mysteries.

6.     Movement and Energy

Circles in abstract art can convey a sense of movement and energy. Spiralling or concentric circles create dynamic compositions that symbolise growth, change, and the flow of life. They infuse artworks with a sense of vitality and motion.

7.     Personal Interpretation

One of my favourite things about abstract art, is its openness to interpretation. The symbolism of the circle can vary widely from one artist to another and one viewer to the next. Each circle can carry a unique meaning and emotion, depending on the context and the individual’s perspective.

So circles are versatile, and can be used for a variety of purposes. I use them a lot both because the shape pleases me, and they’re a useful design device, bringing different areas of a painting together. And yes, sometimes they mean some of the things mentioned above, so I expect that this versatility is the reason they keep on cropping up, no matter how hard I try to remove them!