Abstract art has long fascinated and perplexed viewers with its unique ability to convey complex emotions, ideas, and aesthetics through non-representational forms. Unlike traditional art that depicts recognizable scenes and objects, abstract art employs shapes, colours, and textures to create a visual experience that is open to interpretation. If you're eager to dive into the world of abstract painting, this guide will help you get started.
What is Abstract Art Painting?
Abstract art is a genre of visual art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of visual reality. Instead, it uses shapes, colours, forms, and gestural marks to achieve its effect. This art form emerged in the early 20th century with artists like Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian, and Kazimir Malevich leading the way. They moved away from traditional subject matter to focus on the intrinsic elements of painting itself.
There are several styles within abstract art, including:
- Geometric abstraction: Focuses on the use of geometric shapes and a meticulous, often mathematical approach to composition.
- Lyrical abstraction: Emphasises expressive, often spontaneous use of colour and form, aiming to evoke emotion.
- Minimalism: Strips down the artwork to its basic elements, creating a clean, simplistic aesthetic.
- Abstract expressionism: Characterised by an emphasis on spontaneous, automatic, or subconscious creation.
The appeal of abstract art lies in its open-endedness. Viewers are invited to interpret the artwork in their own way, making each viewing a personal experience.
Getting Started with Abstract Painting
- Gather Your Materials
- Canvas or Paper: Choose a surface to paint on. Canvases are popular for their durability and texture, but heavy paper works well too.
- Paints: Acrylics are a great choice for beginners due to their quick drying time and versatility. Watercolours and oils are also options, each with their unique properties.
- Brushes and Tools: A variety of brushes, palette knives, and even unconventional tools like sponges or sticks can create interesting effects.
- Palette: For mixing paints. A disposable palette or a piece of glass works well.
- Water and Rags: For cleaning brushes and thinning paints (if using acrylics or watercolours).
- Find Inspiration Abstract art can be inspired by almost anything: a feeling, a piece of music, nature, or even a fleeting thought. Spend some time observing your surroundings or reflecting on your emotions to find a starting point.
- Sketch Your Ideas While abstract art often appears spontaneous, a preliminary sketch can help you organise your thoughts. Use a pencil to lightly outline the basic composition on your canvas.
- Choose Your Colours Colours play a crucial role in abstract art. Decide on a colour scheme that evokes the mood you wish to convey. Complementary colours can create vibrant contrasts, while analogous colours offer a harmonious feel.
- Begin Painting Start applying paint to your canvas. Don't worry about precision; abstract art thrives on spontaneity and expression. Here are a few techniques to consider:
- Layering: Apply multiple layers of paint to create depth and texture.
- Blending: Mix colours directly on the canvas to achieve smooth transitions.
- Dripping and Splattering: Use a brush or palette knife to flick paint onto the canvas for dynamic, unpredictable effects.
- Scratching and Scraping: Use tools to scratch through layers of paint, revealing the colours underneath.
- Embrace Mistakes Mistakes in abstract art are often happy accidents that can lead to new creative directions. If something doesn't turn out as planned, work with it instead of against it.
- Step Back and Reflect Periodically step back from your work to gain a fresh perspective. This helps you see the overall composition and make adjustments as needed.
- Final Touches Once you're satisfied with your painting, add any final details. This could be small accents of colour, additional texture, or refining certain areas.
Developing Your Style
As you gain more experience, you'll start to develop your own style. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:
- Experiment: Try different techniques, tools, and mediums. The more you experiment, the more you'll discover what resonates with you.
- Study Other Artists: Look at the work of abstract artists you admire. Analyse their use of colour, composition, and technique.
- Practice Regularly: Like any skill, painting improves with practice. Set aside regular time for creating art.
- Stay Open-Minded: Abstract art is about freedom and expression. Don't limit yourself with rigid rules or expectations.
Abstract Art & Emotion
One of the most powerful aspects of abstract art is its ability to evoke emotion. The use of colour, form, and texture can convey feelings in a way that words often cannot. Here are a few ways to harness emotion in your abstract paintings:
- Colour Psychology: Different colours can evoke different emotions. For example, blue often conveys calmness, while red can evoke passion or anger. Use colour intentionally to communicate your desired mood.
- Dynamic Composition: A busy, chaotic composition can create a sense of movement and energy, while a more balanced, symmetrical layout can feel serene and controlled.
- Texture and Medium: Thick, impasto paint can add a tactile quality that makes a painting feel more intense, while smooth, blended areas can feel gentle and soothing.
Abstract Art in Australian Context
Australia has a rich history of abstract art, influenced by both indigenous art practices and modernist movements. Artists like Ian Fairweather and Albert Tucker have contributed significantly to the abstract art scene. Contemporary Australian abstract artists continue to explore themes of landscape, identity, and emotion, often drawing on the country's unique environment and cultural diversity.
Abstract art remains a vibrant and evolving field, with countless opportunities for personal expression and innovation. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, the journey of creating abstract art is a deeply rewarding one, offering endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.
Conclusion
Painting abstract art is a liberating experience that allows you to express yourself in unique and unconventional ways. By understanding the basics, gathering the right materials, and embracing experimentation, you can create artworks that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. Remember, there are no strict rules in abstract art—only opportunities to explore and express your inner world. So pick up your brush, let go of expectations, and immerse yourself in the transformative world of abstract painting.
Also read: How to Invest in Fine Art and Appreciate Its Value