This month in the Mastery Program in the Milan Art Institute, I have started my abstract art unit. I have never painted abstract art and before now, have never desired to paint abstracts. However, I have suddenly found some success! What I'm realizing is that I never really knew how to create an abstract. There are rules that are similar to a regular painting.
Rule #1: Composition
You need to consider composition. Just as in paintings with imagery, abstracts must have a focal point. Select a focal point in one of the quadrants of the canvas and follow the rule of thirds. Another consideration with composition is how the abstract elements will lay on the page. Will they split the page in a type of horizon? Will there be a belt of elements? Or will the abstract be more of a quilt with elements spread across the whole canvas.
Rule #2: Color Story
You must decide on a color story for your abstract. Consider compliments. Select a dominant color and supporting colors. Balance your colors with neutrals.
Rule #3: Depth
Your abstract should have a foreground, middle ground, and background, just like a painting with imagery. In fact, you should consider as many as five levels of depth.
Rule #4: Texture variation
If your abstract has texture, there should be a variation.
Rule #5: Line and shape
There should be a variation of line and shape that is not too repetitive.
Try out creating an abstract painting, you will be surprised how easy it is!
