How to Start Drawing Abstract Art When You're Stuck

Starting to create abstract art can be both exciting and challenging, especially when you're not sure where to begin. This guide will explore some tips and techniques to help you kickstart your abstract art journey, from using your non-dominant hand to understanding the core concepts of abstraction.

Using Your Non-Dominant Hand for Creativity

One effective way to spark creativity is by attempting to create art with your non-dominant hand. This approach can dramatically alter your perspective and reduce the emphasis on technical accuracy, allowing for more spontaneous and expressive results.

For example, a Fine Art student of mine found that drawing with their left hand was less precise but significantly more expressive. Even when painting, they still often choose to work left-handed, prioritizing madness and spontaneity over control.

Unpack the Concept of Abstract Art

Abstract art is often a source of confusion. Despite its daunting nature, it's merely a term with broad applications. The word "abstract" comes from Latin and means "to draw from," much like extracting facts from a document or drawing water from a well.

From a literary perspective, an abstract of a title is a brief document summarizing the legal and historical context of a property. Similarly, abstract art can be compared to a survey of your perception and the emotional and personal connection to the object of your artistic endeavor.

Shift from Object-Based to Concept-Based Drawing

To get started, consider the object you wish to draw not just as a physical entity, but as a concept. This shift in perspective will transform your drawing process.

Start by drawing the object with precision, aiming to render every feature accurately. This is a method similar to a survey, where each mark represents a visible element.

Next, try to draw the essence or "treeness" of the object. This means looking beyond the physical appearance and focusing on the qualities that define the object conceptually. For instance, in a tree, you might emphasize the branches' lacy texture, the trunk's solidity, or the emotional feeling it evokes.

As you draw, allow your marks to become less about representing specific details and more about expressing the sense of the object. The marks should convey the essence of the branch, trunk, or any other element without being a precise rendering.

Practicing Abstract Art

Shifting to a more abstract approach means embracing imperfections and the flow of your artistic process. It’s important to understand that making an abstract drawing is a practice and requires time and patience.

Sketchbook and Continuous Progression

To track your artistic growth, start a sketchbook. On one side, draw your abstract compositions, and on the other, document your thoughts and feelings. Date each sketch to provide a timeline of your development.

Close the door on your inner critic. Don't worry about perfection; criticism has a way of derailing your creative process. The goal is to make marks that express your perception and emotions.

Conclusion: Embracing Your Marks

Soon, you'll reach a point where making a simple mark is enough to serve as the starting point for your next drawing. This mark is a reflection of your individuality, a key lesson in abstract art creation. By embracing this innate creativity and allowing marks to emerge spontaneously, you'll find your abstract art journey truly fulfilling.

Best wishes and good drawing times to you!