Abstract art is a non-representational form of art that emerged in response to significant societal changes by the end of the 19th century, pioneered by artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Hilma af Klint. Its legitimacy and acceptance grew during the abstract expressionism movement of the 1940s-1950s, characterized by distinct emotional and aesthetic expressions. Today, abstract art is widely utilized in architecture and interior design for its ability to create depth, movement, and balance without demanding attention.