21.10.11

How Aspiring Abstract Watercolor Artists Can Create Paintings

By Amparo Bird


Anyone looking to produce work in imitation of the world's great abstract watercolor artists must first have more than a basic understanding of the philosophy and ideas behind the concept; this kind of art is not merely splashing paint in striking shapes onto paper.

Abstract art is really a product of the 20th Century, as the various types of Impressionist movement developed. The roots of it stretch much further back into human history though, and artists have used figurative methods of representing a kind of reality since the Stone Age. Two kinds came to the fore in the 20th Century: a variety where images are 'abstracted' from reality until they have been utterly altered, and works which are viewed as a 'purer' kind of abstraction, which have little relation to reality as it is conventionally perceived.

More specialist art websites can provide a detailed explanation of the concept, but it is well worthwhile doing more than cursory research into the philosophy and ideas behind this kind of art in order to work within the genre more successfully.

Anyone looking to work in watercolors must ensure that they have decent equipment. A small paint brush, a size one or a size zero, is the best choice for a beginner, while it is also best to opt for specialist watercolor paper and paints, as well as a pencil. Paints can be mixed for color in the plastic lid of the paints set, which can function as de facto pallet.

Important things to consider before starting such a work are to ensure that there is a clear focus and idea, as well as being flexible. Looking at the work of artists such as Vasily Kandinsky, Henri Matisse and even Pablo Picasso will give an idea of what abstract art should be trying to do.

Once an idea is in place, the creativity that can be triggered by such art is there to be channelled, and it may be a pleasant surprise as to the kind of finished work which can be produced by even the most modest of abstract watercolor artists. Using shape and color to reflect a more personal rather than conventional view of the world can be a tremendously fulfilling experience for anyone.




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