Q&A for How to Create an Abstract Painting

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How should I start an acrylic painting?

Kelly Medford
Professional Artist
Kelly Medford is an American painter based in Rome, Italy. She studied classical painting, drawing and printmaking both in the U.S. and in Italy. She works primarily en plein air on the streets of Rome, and also travels for private international collectors on commission. She founded Sketching Rome Tours in 2012 where she teaches sketchbook journaling to visitors of Rome. Kelly is a graduate of the Florence Academy of Art.

Kelly Medford

Professional Artist

Expert Answer

Begin by prepping the background of the painting with a base layer of gesso so the paint adheres better. If you want to have a color show through the undertones of the painting, you can then paint a thin base layer.

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Question

How do you show movement in art?

Kelly Medford
Professional Artist
Kelly Medford is an American painter based in Rome, Italy. She studied classical painting, drawing and printmaking both in the U.S. and in Italy. She works primarily en plein air on the streets of Rome, and also travels for private international collectors on commission. She founded Sketching Rome Tours in 2012 where she teaches sketchbook journaling to visitors of Rome. Kelly is a graduate of the Florence Academy of Art.

Kelly Medford

Professional Artist

Expert Answer

One way is through the colors you choose. Choose warm colors because they create movement. Warm colors include reds, yellows, and oranges.

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Can I still do this if I am bad at painting?

Community Answer

Of course! Abstract art is very forgiving. You can even use your fingers if a paintbrush intimidates you. One good way to remove self-doubt is to paint blindfolded while listening to music. The rhythm of the music will "guide" your hand, and your painting will have more feeling and emotion.

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Question

Is abstract painting about making random splashes of paint on a canvas?

Community Answer

It depends about what would be the message of your art you will give to the viewers. You may paint with random splashes but think about what would the viewer of your art think when they see this art. So basically, abstract painting can be some random splashes as long as you have the message to impart. Maybe your message is: "Isn't this radical? It's random splashes of paint."

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Question

I feel like I'm not a good painter, but people tell me I am. What should I do?

Community Answer

Keep painting. As long as people like your art there's a reason to keep painting. If you enjoy the process and people like it, what is to worry about?

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Question

Can I use different tape?

Community Answer

If you are painting on canvas, painters tape will work best, but scotch tape or another type would also work. If you are painting on thick paper or poster board, you should probably stick to the painters tape; any other type of tape may rip the paper.

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Question

What title should be given to an abstract painting?

Community Answer

Whatever appeals to you. It is mostly what inspires you when you see that painting.

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Question

Can I use a crayon for making an abstract?

Community Answer

Yes, you can.

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Question

Where can I get ideas for designs?

Community Answer

Most abstract designs will be random. When laying the tape down, try place some pieces closer together while others further apart. When selecting colors, consider keeping your paint palette out of your sight (such as behind your back or under a box). This way, whatever color you pick up will truly be random.

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Question

Do straight geometric shapes in order count as abstract art?

Community Answer

Abstract art is about emotion. If you add creativity and make your painting very unique, it can be considered abstract if you do something you feel is right, and different.

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Question

I am very good at art, but it bothers me that one of my classmates gets better grades than me.

Community Answer

You don't always need to be the best at everything. All that matters is that you try hard and enjoy doing it. If you work hard and at the same time you are satisfied with what you drew/painted, you may become the top in your class, but don't focus on this completely. Have fun and be creative!

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Question

How can I paint with my fingers?

Community Answer

There aren't any rules -- just get creative! Get out your paints and start using your fingers the same way you would use a brush.

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Question

Am I going to be a good painter if I paint everyday?

Community Answer

You will definitely improve your painting skills by painting every day.

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Question

What color background should I use for a multi-colored, fully covered canvas?

Community Answer

Use a light warm beige. This makes the background subtle, but provides a matching glow to all the bright warm colors. After all, it's just a base color.

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Question

How much would someone pay for one of these?

Community Answer

It is amazing what people might be willing to pay for your work. It might be anything from $50 to hundreds!

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Question

Where can I find gesso paint?

Community Answer

You can get it at any art supply store, and most craft supply stores, like Michael's, Hobby Lobby, etc. You can even buy it on Amazon.

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Question

How I can create a landscape in abstract style?

Community Answer

You can try using different colors that would not normally be associated with the object you are painting. Using longer, looser strokes may also work (try holding the paintbrush at the very end of the handle with two fingers). You can also try looking at the landscape and then closing your eyes and picturing it in your head, then either painting it with your eyes closed, picking random colors from the palette, or opening your eyes but still painting the piece from memory. Play around with it and see what works for you, the world of abstract painting is very forgiving!

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Question

Can I use gel pens and markers for abstract art?

Community Answer

Yes. There aren't any rules, so do whatever you feel is right.

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Question

How do I paint flowers in an abstract style?

Community Answer

Try to paint their petals thinner and longer and also use more bright colors.

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Question

Can I make abstract art with regular paper and oil pastels?

Community Answer

Yes, you can. Abstract art can be done with anything.

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Question

Can I do this on paper with crayons and colored pencils?

Community Answer

You can, but it might not be as effective as working with paints. You should give it a shot and experiment with the technique though!

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Question

Is painting a good way to earn money?

Community Answer

No, it's not really a good way to earn money, but it can be done.

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Question

I have not done any painting since high school. However, I am interested in returning to painting, what can I do?

Arsema Demissie

Community Answer

Start your painting by thinking of an object, or a scene. Do not think of the actual drawing, just dwell on the thought or form of the object. Your imagination and your feelings will create what you paint on the canvas.

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