Abstract Painting Techniques and Strategies: Concepts and Techniques

by Vicky Perry

"Abstraction allows man to see with his mind what he cannot physically see with his eyes...Abstract art enables the artist to perceive beyond the tangible, to extract the infinite out of the finite. It is emancipation of the mind. It is an explosion into unknown areas."- Arshile GorkyAbstract Concepts and Techniques is a comprehensive guide to the history, methods, techniques, materials, and study of abstract art. It is illustrated with inspiring examples of work by 20th century and contemporary masters, including, but not limited to, work AdamsLucy BakerWalter Darby BannardTom BarronJim BoharyStanley BoxerPeter BradleyIngrid CalameJane ChartierGene DavisPaula DeLucciaKevin FinkleaPat LipskyMorris LouisLinn MeyersMaggie MichaelJames NaresIrene NealKenneth NolandLauren OlitskiGraham PeacockLarry PoonsDavid GreedBridget RileyDavid RowBill ScottFrank StellaGary StephanBarbara TakanagaRichard TimperioJosette UrsoArthur Yanoff

Genres: Art, Nonfiction

Unknown Binding

First published September 1, 2005

Reviews

[Jane Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very thorough book on abstract painting. I am impressed with the depth and detail of the author’s explanations of the technical requirements of oil and acrylic abstract painting, particularly for modern applications that go beyond traditional substrates, sizes and techniques. She discusses the concerns of conservation-friendly methods as well as some of the reasons artists have needed to/chosen to disregard archival practice in order to further the work.

While the examples shown cover a wide range of media, including encaustic (in particular the work of Jasper Johns and Joann Mattera), the discussions of technique are all based in oil and acrylic paints. As a beginner to acrylics, and a more casual painter, it was a bit over my head. (I have no desire whatsoever to paint in oils. Ever.)

Once outside the realm of oils/acrylics, however, I appreciated the extensive discussions of the problems of form, color, and texture (a full chapter on each), which are well grounded in historical discussion and examples from past and current masters. The examples throughout the book are taken from the work of major artists, contemporary and past; the obvious folks you’ve heard of (Abstract Expressionists, for example) and many less known outside the art world. It’s definitely a “dig deep” approach; there are no projects, tutorials, or hand holding (which I think is what is appropriate for this book, frankly.)

I would recommend this book for the serious painter interested in abstraction, especially working in oils or acrylics. I suspect it is intended as more of a textbook, though I just happened upon it while trawling the art shelves at the local library.

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am not a painter, I work in fiber, and I checked this book out of the library to get design and color ideas. i was very impressed with the discussions about materials particularly the discussion of the importance of using your materials properly to ensure that your artwork will last. The book contains a lot of information about abstract art with photographs of a variety of different artist's works, as well as quite a bit of technical detail about the use of oil and acrylic paints.

[Therésa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is more of an academic book, not a how-to book.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book that tackles all the elements one could think of with respect to creating abstractions. It isn't reading for the faint of heart, though - this is a very indepth book that requires an investment of previous painting/artmaking knowledge in addition to an intellectual commitment. Well laid out, assembled and designed, with great images and supporting artwork!!

[Reuel · Rating 3 out of 5]

A reasonably good introduction to abstract art.

[Teddy Farias · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good stuff. great compilation of new abstract artists.