Final answer:
Abstract and non-representational art began before photography was well established.
Step-by-step explanation:
The exploration of abstract and non-representational art began before photography was well established. In the early 1800s, artists were still influenced by European styles but gradually moved towards American Realism, focusing on themes of democracy and the natural wonders of the country. After the civil war, photography and other popular art expressions emerged. However, the movement towards abstract and non-representational art started before photography became well established.