What exactly is abstract art?

I once overheard someone say that abstract art is “about nothing”.

Abstract art is far from being "about nothing." At its core, it focuses on form, color, line, texture, pattern, composition, and process. These formal qualities define the appearance and creation of the artwork, making abstract art an exploration of these elements. The primary aim of abstraction in art is not to narrate a story but to stimulate engagement and imagination. This art form seeks to provide viewers with an intangible and emotional experience that varies for each person based on their personality and mood. Abstract art does not accurately depict visual reality. Instead, it communicates through lines, shapes, colors, forms, and gestural marks. Abstract artists employ various techniques, blending traditional methods with experimental approaches.

Ultimately, the most significant aspect of good abstract art is its ability to combine all visual elements to evoke a specific emotion from the viewer.