As our feelings have no definite shape or order, we can channel our emotions through abstract expressions. Wait, abstract doesn’t mean nonsense or erratic! The abstract form transcends the boundaries of realism, stepping into a territory of unrestricted imagination. It reflects truth as free flowing in the abrupt strokes, haphazard alignment of the subject, juxtaposed shapes, geometric lines created by artists. This unique form has changed the way modern art is perceived, giving more freedom to the creators, to rely on their insights and intuitions rather than looking for realistic cues and objects for the artworks. The massive mural installations by Jack Pollock or Mark Rothko can be the perfect example of expressionist abstract art. If you are drawn to this particular style and like to make your art more professional, here are some handy tips to make your artwork a mass attention-grabber! The things you would need are the best of intuitions and mastering the techniques. So, let’s get started with the ideas:
- Understand the Ideals of Abstract Painting and Creations
Abstract art is not your free ticket to create anything unintentional and random. When you look up to the masters of famous abstract art like Wasili Kandinsky, Mark Rothko or Jackson Pollock, you will notice that they have well-thought ideas and introspections behind every stroke, every blotch of color they have used on the canvas. Nothing is meaningless in the abstract. Even the nonsense makes sense with the artistic references that the creators leave behind.
- Knowledge of the Color Psychology Helps
Knowledge of color psychology or how colors work on our moods and mannerisms is a prerequisite for a good abstract artist. Experiment with color triads, complementary colors and analogues can set you on track. You can use the rule of asymmetry, the radial motion, or geometric alignments to conceptualize the composition.
- Think of the Subject and Stick to Your Intentions
It’s very important to settle down, visualize and think about the content you are trying to give shape. Your thoughts and ideas must include a question like ‘what is the purpose of my art’ or ‘what color should I use to express my feelings better’ etc. Even, you can blend ideas, merge techniques to make your thoughts resonate. Without your intention, the abstract artwork will never reach its destination, i.e., to connect with the world outside.
- Experiment with the Trends and Techniques of Modern Abstract Art
Though the trends of abstract painting have changed over the years, one thing has remained unchanged, i.e., the control and skill of the artist to make the creation look spontaneous and natural. Learn the dynamism of texture and patterns, layering and masking colors, efficient blending of edges, etc. to get the desired result. Using sponges or palette knives, or using masking tapes to the areas you wish to leave unspoiled can be some of the conventional techniques. Acrylic inks can be an option to let the colors flow smoothly. You can experiment with gesso or a white based acrylic to stiffen the surface, etc.
- You will Need Top-Quality Materials to Get the Best Results
Yes, art materials and tools are some of the essential things to begin with abstract painting. First, choose the right kind of canvas or the surface you are going to work on. If you are a beginner, choose the student-grade acrylic paints as professional paints have more concentration and they are denser. Be generous with the use of brushes; choose a synthetic kind to be resilient with the color mediums. You will need a variety of brushes, from flat, round, thick, to filbert etc. to achieve the desired effects on the canvas or surface. Go for pre-stretched canvases, or the proper mounted ones to start with painting. The texture of paint matters as you can play with textures, blend and layer it, scrap it to get the viewers hooked to your creation.
- Watch the Celebrated Artworks by the Master Artists
Reviewing the great works of the masters is a great idea and it works as a motivator. Go through the iconic works of Wassily Kandinsky, who have mastered the style of color explosion to create a spiritual experience. Go through Rothko or Pollock creations of murals, large canvases of color symphony, color blocks to show the movement and energy in the artwork. Do not imitate styles, use them as inspirations.
- Play with Colors and Your Ideas
In abstract digital art form, there is no restriction of space or alignment as there is no rigid orientation; let your imagination run wild; experiment with colors, forms, density until you achieve the best results. If it is an unusual composition you are working with, be curious, and seek ways to explore. The more you explore the more intriguing your composition would become!
- Seek feedbacks from Mentor and Viewers to Grow as an Artist
Learn from your mistakes and always try to seek advice from your mentors, guide, and critics, etc. Constructive criticism can expand horizons and let you move on. Taking part in abstract art competition and abstract art contests organized by some prestigious galleries like TERAVARNA can add more miles to your portfolio and will help you expose your skills and learn from other contemporary artists participating in the competitions.
Conclusion:
Though it may look messy, an abstract artwork should have the proper balance and a sense of symmetry. They are born of an artist’s intuition to portray the wilderness in the right proportion, or else no art is conceived. Participate in art shows and abstract art contests organized by premium online galleries like TERAVARNA and hone your skills like a pro with these valuable tips.