I bought a book called "Painting Abstracts - ideas, projects and techniques" by Rolina van Vliet (C) Search Press 2008. I really like it. I'm sure I will mostly paint "realistic" paintings, but I think the concepts and the freedom of expression found in abstract painting will enhance my other paintings as I incorporate them into new works.
I called my lovely wife and said, "I'm reading my new book and trying out the suggested exercises. The book said not to worry about making art - that we are practicing, not producing art yet."
To which my wife replied, "how will you know when you've made art?"
"I don't know!" was my answer.
Here's my first exercise. It is acrylic paint on Canva-paper put on with a palette knife rather than brushes.
Is it art? Hmmmm, maybe. Feel free to leave a comment and give me your thoughts.
Oh, here's what the back cover of the book says,
"Clear, challenging and inspiring, this book contains instructions for 65 abstract painting that you can get to wok on straightaway, with no previous experience. All the basic information relating to picture elements, composition, theme and design is provided at the start of the book, together with an exploration of the meaning of abstract painting, and its importance as a means of self-expression and creativity.
Rather than providing step-by-step instructions, each of the exercises consists of information on method, materials, technique, composition, imagery and structure, which will direct you to the finished piece while at the same time encouraging your creativity."
That's a lot ot promise, but it looks like it will deliver.
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8 comments:
Your first atempt looks great,doesn't it feel good to just put some paint down and not worry about composition, or drawing perfectly? It gives you freedom.
I think that it's fascinating that there is a book about the subject! And I think your painting is fantastic! I think the freedom of painting in an abstract way can make a person really look at the world differently. I would liken the experience to recalling childhood and it being "okay" to play in the mud. Why can't we do that as adults? Some of the best things I ever drew were when I was eight. To me, in art, there is no right and wrong...there is only YOU. Expressing yourself however you wish is the most important thing....realism or abstract, I don't care which, the CREATION is the important factor. That's just my humble opinion, so forgive me if I sound a bit like I'm on a soap box. I am thrilled to see someone who thinks they would normally only paint realistically, step outside of their comfort zone to play in the abstract world! :)
I always find that an occasional abstract 'cleanses your palette' so to speak. Nice job!
I like it Lyndel. I like the colours and the energy and I hope you post more of your progress for us to follow. :-)
Lyndel, I've been wanting to do more abstracts. The cover of that book is a beautiful piece.
Your first effort is very free. And I do think that is the point. Please keep us up to date about this...I may have to get that book!
Hi Lyndel -
This looks wonderful! That book does look very interesting and I too love the cover!
I think it looks like art ... it has good composition ... there is a lot of movement ... the eye keeps moving around but not wandering off the paper ...I think it is a success!
I have a free giveaway -
http://www.dianeclancy.com/blog/2009/01/one-world-one-heart-giveaway/
~ Diane Clancy
www.DianeClancy.com/blog
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Thank you all so much for your comments. I know the work that you all do, so I very much value your opinions.
Dali , Picasso , Monet, Klimt , Thomas
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