Photo Art Themes and Subject Matter
Explore our collections of art organized by theme and subject matter, and learn about theme and subject matter in art. Browse your favorites, and find a new artwork for your home!
Shopping Art by Theme and Subject
In the visual arts, theme and subject matter are what describe the "topic" or "contents" of an artwork. Despite the distinction between these two ways of organizing art, theme and subject matter share an inherent likeness. As the subject matter is distinct from the object in being not just an object which appears in a given motif, but what an artwork is actually "about", so does the theme define the "story" behind a work in a particular genre or style, or with a given motif or look.
Because it is a truism of modern art that a given work of art has many possible interpretations, theme or subject matter are descriptors of an artwork which are inherently open. While abstract art may count among its sub-categories "abstract landscape art", or "black and white figurative art", an art collection organized by the theme "atmospheric" or the subject matter "clouds" can likewise contain within it works across styles, movements, and genres.
If starting a photography collection, selection criteria like interesting themes or specific photographic subjects are perfectly valid. Works of art chosen for what is represented in them - or what theme they may have despite being non-representational - are likely to satisfy your artistic taste, and speak more directly to your interest in specific themes. Explore our curators' tips and ideas on how to choose art for your home, and turn your home into an art gallery today!
