Abstract art has a unique way of speaking directly to emotion. Rather than showing the world as it looks, abstract painting explores how the world feels through colour, movement, texture, and intuition.
If you’re curious about abstract art painting but feel unsure where to begin, this guide will walk you through the essentials. From understanding what abstract art really is, to choosing colours, getting started with techniques, and finding your own visual language, this is a gentle, beginner-friendly introduction to painting abstract art without pressure.
What Is Abstract Art Painting?
Abstract art is a form of visual expression that doesn’t aim to represent reality in a literal way. Instead of painting recognisable objects or scenes, abstract artists use shapes, colours, lines, and textures to communicate mood, energy, and emotion.
This approach emerged in the early 20th century, with artists such as Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, and Kazimir Malevich moving away from traditional subject matter to focus on the raw elements of painting itself.
There are several well-known abstract art styles, including:
- Geometric abstraction, built around structure, repetition, and form
- Lyrical abstraction, which favours spontaneity and emotional expression
- Minimalism, where simplicity and restraint take centre stage
- Abstract expressionism, rooted in gesture, movement, and subconscious mark-making
What makes abstract art so compelling is its openness. There’s no single “correct” interpretation — each viewer brings their own meaning to the work.
If you’re curious how abstract art compares to more representational styles, our guide on abstract vs. realism breaks it down beautifully, exploring how different painting approaches create very different emotional experiences.
Why Abstract Art Feels So Accessible (Even for Beginners)
One of the biggest misconceptions about abstract art is that it’s difficult or “too conceptual.” In reality, abstract painting can be one of the most approachable ways to start painting especially if blank canvases feel intimidating.
Because abstract art doesn’t rely on technical accuracy or realism, it allows you to focus on:
- Colour and feeling
- Process over outcome
- Expression rather than perfection
This makes it particularly appealing if you’re returning to painting after a long break, or trying art for the first time as an adult.
Getting Started With Abstract Painting
Gather Your Materials
You don’t need much to begin painting abstract art:
- Canvas or heavy paper — canvas adds texture, paper keeps things flexible
- Paints — acrylics are ideal for beginners thanks to their versatility and fast drying time
- Brushes and tools — include palette knives, sponges, old cards, or even your hands
- Palette — for mixing colours freely
- Water and rags — for cleaning and experimenting
If you’re looking for ready-to-use options, our Matisse-inspired painting is also a good place to start.
Find Inspiration (Without Overthinking It)
Abstract art can be inspired by almost anything: a memory, a song, a feeling, a colour palette, or even a fleeting mood. Instead of searching for something to “paint,” start by noticing what you’re drawn to emotionally.
Some artists sketch ideas first, others jump straight in. Both approaches are valid.
For a more hands-on approach, we also share practical techniques in our step-by-step guide on how to find inspiration to create art, which can help remove the guesswork when you’re starting out.
Choosing Colours in Abstract Art
Colour is often the emotional backbone of abstract painting. Before you begin, it can help to think about the mood you want to explore rather than the image you want to create.
Warm colours tend to feel energetic and expressive, while cooler tones often create calm or introspection. High contrast can add drama, while softer palettes can feel soothing and reflective.
Colour choices play a huge role in abstract painting, and understanding a few basics of colour theory can make the process feel far more intuitive especially if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by mixing or palette decisions.
Abstract Painting Techniques to Explore
Once you start painting, allow yourself to experiment. Abstract art thrives on process and discovery.
Some techniques to try:
- Layering paint to create depth and movement
- Blending directly on the canvas for organic transitions
- Dripping or splattering paint for spontaneity
- Scratching and scraping through layers to reveal hidden colour
If something feels “wrong,” pause before fixing it. Many abstract paintings evolve through unexpected moments that end up defining the final piece.
Embracing Mistakes (They’re Part of the Process)
One of the most freeing aspects of abstract art is that mistakes often become opportunities. A colour that feels too strong, a shape that feels awkward, these moments can guide you toward new directions rather than stopping the process.
Step back regularly, view your work from a distance, and trust your instinct about what feels complete.
Developing Your Own Abstract Style
As you spend more time painting, subtle patterns will begin to emerge in your work. You may notice that certain colour palettes, gestures, or types of composition feel more instinctive and satisfying than others. These recurring choices are often the early signs of a personal style taking shape.
Developing your abstract style is less about defining it early and more about giving yourself space to explore. Experimenting with different techniques, tools, and approaches allows you to discover what truly resonates with you, without the pressure of needing to produce a recognisable “look” straight away. Looking at the work of abstract artists you admire can also be helpful, not as something to replicate, but as inspiration for how colour, movement, and emotion can be expressed in different ways.
Regular practice plays an important role, even if that practice happens in short, informal sessions. Returning to painting often helps build confidence and familiarity with your materials, while also strengthening your intuitive decision-making. Just as importantly, staying open to change allows your work to evolve naturally. Abstract art is not about consistency or perfection, but about growth, curiosity, and responding honestly to where you are in the moment.
Rather than searching for a signature style, allow it to emerge over time. The most authentic abstract work often comes from patience, experimentation, and a willingness to let the process lead.
Abstract Art & Emotion
Abstract painting has a deep connection to emotional expression. Colour, texture, and movement can communicate feelings that are often hard to articulate with words.
Different approaches can evoke different emotional responses:
- Calm compositions can feel grounding
- Energetic marks can release tension
- Texture can add intensity or softness
Abstract painting is also deeply connected to wellbeing, something we explore further when looking at how creativity impacts mental health and why creative practices can be such powerful tools for emotional balance.
Let Abstract Art Be an Experience, Not a Result
Abstract art painting is less about producing something recognisable and more about allowing yourself to explore colour, movement, and feeling. There are no strict rules — only invitations to experiment.
By gathering simple materials, letting go of expectations, and trusting the process, abstract painting can become a calming, expressive, and deeply personal creative practice.
If you’re ready to explore further, this is also the perfect moment to discover our abstract painting kits and designs, created to make abstract art feel approachable, intuitive, and enjoyable from the very first brushstroke.