The purpose of abstract art is not to record what something looks like but rather how you feel about it - an emotional or imaginative response. Abstract pictures convey feelings using shapes, lines, colours, and textures. Colours communicate feelings too. For example, the colour red is associated with anger or passion, while softer pastel colours are associated with calm. Making art in this way can allow you to express yourself and can be very liberating (see E). Don’t worry about the end result, just allow yourself to enjoy the moment. There is no right or wrong!

Tom Furness, Buttermere

ACTIVITY: PAINT AN ABSTRACT LANDSCAPE

Look at the two landscape artworks. One is abstract, and one is representational. Discuss how they are different and what feelings the colours, lines and shapes evoke in each of them. Create your own abstract landscape using pre-cut or torn paper shapes which can be glued onto a larger sheet of paper. Enhance your artworks by painting over the collage with acrylic colours.

Mark Johnston, Sun, Sea and Sky I, 1999

MATERIALS

• Pre-cut/torn shapes – use any paper with different weights and textures
• PVA glue
• Thick card or heavyweight paper
• Assortment of acrylic paints and different sized brushes
• Water pots
• Mixing palettes

TIPS

Ask a local framer for ‘offcuts’ of mounting card that can be used to work on.

Artist Inspiration: Etel Adnan, Mark Huit, Stella Rankin

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