The balance between intuitive freedom and intellectual concepts is a hallmark of abstract painting.
Abstract art refers to works that depict a partial or complete abstraction of a subject. There are different types of abstract art that have become popular in recent times. Picasso, for example, used figurative art to create his abstract work known as Cubism. Body parts were segmented into cubes, or squares, to create a striking stylization of an otherwise normal subject. Abstract expressionism breaks all the rules of composition, color and form to provide an open platform for intuitive expression.
Instructions
1. Prepare your painting station with all the brushes and paints you will need to create your artwork. Use a drop cloth if you plan on splashing or splattering paint.
2. Use a pencil to sketch out any forms if you are planning a figurative abstract. Draw the main elements on a separate sheet of paper to formulate your composition.
3. Compose your painting in a way that makes it easy for the viewer to understand the work. Do not add too many items at first as this will create a confused composition. Draw the figures in a realist fashion; you will be able to deconstruct them later in the process. Use a reference image to help you get the right proportions. Keep the focus near the center and consider where it will lead the eye of the viewer.
4. Use brushes and apply paint to your drawing. Use striking colors that don't necessarily appear in reality. Use your intuition to create lines of sight, or action, within the painting. The flow of your brush strokes and the colors you use will be key elements in making it an abstract painting. Let each layer dry before adding more layers. Keep adding layers until the painting looks finished. Keep the main outlines intact and use the spaces within to enhance the abstraction in your work.
5. Create a spontaneous work of abstract expressionism as an alternative project. Prepare your thoughts on paper or let yourself go freestyle. Think of contradictions and juxtapositions of color and form. Splatter or use a spatula to scrape thick layers of different colored paints to express your thoughts and ideas. Rely on your instincts to guide you and to preserve a sense of spontaneity. Curb any thoughtless spontaneity by using your intelligence. Use some logic, or a "method-to-the-madness" approach, to avoid your painting becoming a confused mess.
6. Continue to analyze your work regardless of what style of abstract art you wish to create. Add layers to you work as many times as you feel necessary to properly create your expression. Use the freedom inherent in abstract painting by being intuitive and spontaneous. At the same time, be mindful of a concept embedded in the fabric of your painting.
