Abstract Painting: What It Is and How to Get Started
Ever wonder why some canvases look like a splash of color with no clear picture? That’s abstract painting – art that focuses on feeling, shape, and color instead of realistic detail. It lets you express mood without worrying about drawing a perfect nose or tree. If you’ve ever felt drawn to a bold, non‑representational piece in a gallery, you’re already on the abstract train.
Abstract art can feel intimidating because there’s no "right" way to copy reality. But that freedom is the biggest advantage. You control the rules, decide the palette, and let intuition guide each brushstroke. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone who’s tried a few canvases, the basics are the same: choose a surface, pick your tools, and start playing.
Getting Started with Abstract Painting
First, grab a canvas or sturdy paper. A medium‑size (16x20 inches) works well – big enough to make bold gestures, small enough to handle. Pick a few paints you like; acrylics are cheap and dry fast, while oils give richer blends but need more patience. If you’re not sure, start with a basic set of primary colors, black, white, and a couple of earth tones.
Next, think about your mood. Are you feeling calm, angry, or excited? Let that feeling pick a color scheme. For a calm vibe, try blues and soft greens; for energy, go red, orange, and yellow. Lay down a background wash – a thin layer of color stretched across the canvas. This creates a base that ties the whole piece together.
Now comes the fun part: gesture work. Use a large brush, palette knife, or even a sponge to make sweeping strokes, splatters, or drips. Don’t overthink it – move quickly, let the paint flow, and watch how shapes form. If a spot looks too harsh, add a soft blend with a dry brush or a clean rag. Remember, you can always add layers later, so mistakes become part of the texture.
Tips for Improving Your Abstract Work
1. Limit your palette. Using three to five colors forces you to think about contrast and harmony. Too many shades can make the piece feel chaotic.
2. Play with texture. Mix sand, modeling paste, or even crumpled paper into the paint. Different surfaces catch light differently, adding depth without extra color.
3. Step back often. Every 5‑10 minutes, stand back and look at the whole canvas. Your brain sees patterns you miss up close, helping you decide where to add or subtract.
4. Study other artists. Check out works like “Disadvantages of Abstract Art” for a critical angle on what can go wrong. Seeing how others balance chaos and control teaches you what to avoid.
5. Keep a sketchbook. Jot down color combos, brush experiments, or quick swatches. When you return to the canvas, you’ll have a toolbox of ideas ready.
Once you finish, let the painting dry completely. Acrylics may take an hour; oils need a few days. After it’s dry, you can varnish it to protect the surface and bring out the colors.
Looking for more inspiration? Browse related posts on our site – from “The 7 Main Areas of Art” to “How to Blur Oil Painting Edges.” You’ll find practical tips that complement your abstract journey. And if you ever wonder how to price a piece or where to sell it, we have guides on art markets and exhibition tips.
Abstract painting isn’t about perfect representation; it’s about capturing a feeling you can’t put into words. Grab your brushes, trust your gut, and let the canvas tell its own story. Happy painting!
