“Abstract means literally to draw from or separate. In this sense every artist is abstract for he must create his own work from his visual impressions. A realistic or non-objective approach makes no difference. The result is what counts.” — Richard Diebenkorn
Richard Diebenkorn (1922-1993) Ocean Park No.121 1980 oil on canvas 78¼ x 78 3/8 in. Price realised USD 7,698,500
You can tell the difference by looking at intention, purpose, and how the work is used, rather than judging technique or style.
Here’s a simple way to understand it:
1. Purpose
Fine art is created mainly to express an idea, emotion, or personal vision.
Illustration art is created to communicate a message for something else — a story, product, article, brand, or character.
2. Context
Fine art usually stands on its own. You can hang it in a gallery, museum, or private collection and it still makes sense.
Illustration is usually connected to something: a book, magazine, advertisement, poster, game, or website.
3. Freedom vs. Direction
Fine art gives the artist full freedom. The artist decides the meaning and direction.
Illustration often follows instructions or a brief. It serves a purpose defined by someone else.
4. Interpretation
Fine art invites open interpretation. Viewers can feel or think anything from it.
Illustration usually has a clearer message. It’s meant to guide the viewer toward a specific understanding.
5. Function
Fine art: the function is the expression.
Illustration: the function is to support or explain something else.
Important Note
Many artists today blend both worlds. A digital painting can be fine art if its purpose is expressive; the same style can be illustration if it’s made to tell a story in a book. The difference is not in the style — it’s in why and how the artwork is created.
“The job of the artist is to make the world visible.”
David Park (1911-1960) Boy in Striped Shirt signed and dated ‘Park 59’ (upper left); titled ‘BOY IN STRIPED SHIRT’ (on the overlap) oil on canvas 50 x 36 in. (127 x 91.4 cm.) Painted in 1959. Price realised USD 1,323,750
I believe art matters most when it changes how we look at the world. Pollock did that with abstract expressionism, Warhol did it with pop art, and Judd did it through minimalism. Each of them helped people see art in a new way — and that kind of influence is what gives their work real meaning and value.
