Painting Abstracts: Ideas, Projects and Techniques

by Rolina van Vliet

Clear, challenging and inspiring, this book contains instructions for 65 abstract paintings that you can get to work 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 allowing your creativity to flow.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Reference, Crafts

176 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[Marianne Mullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has 65 different exercises to do for painting abstract. The exercises are explained very simply (not a how-to book) allowing the artist to explore more with the theme. It provides variations for each exercise. There is also basic education/information to understand the language of art.

Not a book for a beginner but one for someone looking to expand technique with suggestions for your work.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a book for beginners. Many of the terms needed explanation. There are pictures of finished compositions, but no pictures of the process. While I understand the authors intent was to encourage self expression and not copy an existing work, better explanation and pictures of the process would have been helpful. That being said, there were many exercises (as long as you can figure them out) that are beneficial.

[Carolm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book, however, it is definitely not for an inexperienced painter. It is not a step-by-step and does not include any examples other than the finished product. As a hobbyist, it was a little above what I can accomplish without more understanding of many of the terms and explanations used.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent insights and techniques to help forge a path into abstract painting.

[Thomas Van Boening · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not bad.

I had a lot of "Nailed it" moments, because even when I followed the instructions, it looked only half as good as the picture in the book.

That being said, this is a great way for anyone to make some creative artwork on canvas. I look through the pages again and again and find some sort of inspiration here and there.

Any art student ought to give this a look.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I will purchase. Rolina van Vliet is a visual artist and instructor. There are lessons and techniques included on how to paint abstracts. I am so happy to find this gem of a book!

[Rebecca Waring-Crane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliant exercises and explanations.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not a painter of abstracts. I picked up this book to help me look at subject's in a less literal manner. Now that I have read this book, I am looking forward to working through the exercises.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very helpful suggestions, ideas, and instructions to get any artist started in abstraction.

[Lisa Van Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm dying to get in front of a canvas after reading Van Vliet's book. The ideas are juicy and inviting!