5 Tips for Creating Stunning Abstract Figure Paintings

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 7 min read

Abstract figure painting is a beautiful and expressive art form that allows artists to represent human forms in nontraditional ways. By exploring different materials, mastering the basics, embracing the creative process, focusing on lighting and shadows, and experimenting with textures, you can create stunning abstract figure paintings that captivate viewers. In this blog, we'll share five tips to help you elevate your abstract figure painting skills.

Tip 1: Experiment with Materials

One of the first steps to creating a compelling abstract figure painting is selecting the right materials. Different materials have unique properties and can significantly impact the final outcome of your artwork. Let's explore three popular choices for abstract figure painting materials: acrylic paints, oil paints, and mixed media.

Acrylic Paints

Acrylic paints are water-based, fast-drying, and versatile, making them perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike. They can be used in various techniques, such as:

Thin, transparent layers for a watercolor-like effect
Thick, opaque layers for bold, vibrant colors
Mixed with mediums to create texture and depth

Experiment with different acrylic paint brands and colors to find the right combination for your abstract figure painting style.

Oil Paints

Oil paints are known for their rich, luminous colors and slow-drying nature, which allows artists to blend and manipulate the paint over an extended period. Some key characteristics of oil paints include:

Longer working time for blending and layering
Ability to create subtle color transitions and gradients
Retaining brushstrokes and texture for a more tactile experience

Explore different oil paint brands and experiment with various additives, such as linseed oil or turpentine, to find the perfect formula for your abstract figure painting.

Mixed Media

Mixed media is an exciting approach that combines various materials and techniques to create unique, multidimensional abstract figure paintings. Some popular mixed media options include:

Collage: Incorporating cut or torn pieces of paper, fabric, or other materials into your painting
Found objects: Adding items like buttons, beads, or small toys to create a three-dimensional effect
Text: Including written words or phrases to add a narrative element to your artwork

Experiment with different materials and combinations to discover new possibilities for your abstract figure paintings.

Tip 2: Master the Basics

While abstract figure painting often involves breaking traditional rules, it's essential to understand the fundamental principles of art. By mastering the basics, you can confidently experiment with new techniques and push the boundaries of your creativity. Let's discuss three critical aspects to consider: composition, color theory, and brush techniques.

Composition

Composition refers to the arrangement of elements within your artwork. A well-composed abstract figure painting can guide the viewer's eye and evoke specific emotions. Consider the following tips for improving your composition:

Use the rule of thirds to place focal points in visually appealing locations
Balance your painting with a mix of large and small shapes, as well as contrasting colors and textures
Create movement in your painting by arranging elements in a way that guides the eye through the artwork

Experiment with different compositions to find the most effective layout for your abstract figure painting.

Color Theory

Color theory is the study of how colors interact and influence each other. A strong understanding of color theory can help you create visually striking abstract figure paintings with harmonious color schemes. Here are some essential color theory concepts:

Primary, secondary, and tertiary colors form the basis of the color wheel
Complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel) create contrast and visual interest
Analogous colors (adjacent on the color wheel) provide a sense of harmony and unity

Explore various color schemes and combinations to enhance the emotional impact of your abstract figure painting.

Brush Techniques

Brush techniques play a significant role in defining the style and texture of your abstract figure painting. Experiment with different brushes, strokes, and pressure to create unique effects. Some popular brush techniques include:

Dry brushing: Applying paint with a dry or minimally wet brush to create a rough, textured effect
Glazing: Applying thin, transparent layers of paint to create depth and luminosity
Scumbling: Using a stiff brush to apply paint in a circular or scrubbing motion for a textured, layered effect

Experiment with various brush techniques to develop your unique abstract figure painting style.

Tip 3: Embrace the Creative Process

When creating an abstract figure painting, it's essential to enjoy the journey and not just focus on the final result. Embracing the creative process allows you to explore new ideas and techniques, leading to exciting and unexpected outcomes. In this section, we'll cover sketching, visual research, and artistic inspiration as essential steps in the creative process.

Sketching

Sketching can be a valuable tool for planning and refining your abstract figure painting ideas. By sketching out different compositions, color schemes, and textures, you can quickly visualize what works best for your painting. Here are some tips for effective sketching:

Use simple lines and shapes to represent elements in your painting
Experiment with various layouts and arrangements of figures
Try different color combinations and shading techniques to establish the mood and atmosphere of your painting

Remember, your sketches don't need to be perfect—think of them as a visual brainstorming session to help develop your ideas further.

Visual Research

Visual research involves gathering images and references that inspire your abstract figure painting. This can include photographs, other artworks, patterns, textures, or anything that sparks your creativity. Here are some tips for effective visual research:

Collect images that evoke a specific emotion or atmosphere you want to achieve in your painting
Study the work of other artists, both within and outside the realm of abstract figure painting, to learn from their techniques and styles
Look for patterns, textures, and color combinations in nature, architecture, and everyday objects for inspiration

Visual research can help fuel your creativity and provide fresh ideas for your abstract figure painting.

Artistic Inspiration

Finding artistic inspiration is a crucial part of the creative process. It can come from various sources, such as personal experiences, emotions, or the work of other artists. Here are some ways to cultivate artistic inspiration:

Visit art galleries, museums, or exhibitions to immerse yourself in art and gain new perspectives
Participate in art workshops, classes, or online forums to connect with other artists and share ideas
Explore different art styles and mediums to expand your artistic vocabulary and discover new techniques

By actively seeking inspiration and embracing the creative process, you'll be on your way to creating stunning abstract figure paintings.

Tip 4: Focus on Lighting and Shadows

Lighting and shadows play a significant role in abstract figure painting, adding depth, dimension, and a sense of realism to your artwork. Understanding how light interacts with your subject and the environment can help you create more dynamic and visually striking paintings. In this section, we'll discuss natural light, artificial light, and the importance of shadows and reflections.

Natural Light

Natural light can create a wide range of moods and atmospheres in your abstract figure painting. Here are some tips for working with natural light:

Observe how sunlight changes throughout the day, and note how different angles and intensities of light affect the appearance of your subject
Consider the direction of light when painting, as it will influence the placement of highlights and shadows
Experiment with different times of day, such as the warm, golden hues of sunrise or the cool, blue tones of twilight

Working with natural light can add an organic, dynamic quality to your abstract figure painting.

Artificial Light

Artificial light sources, such as lamps or studio lights, offer more control over the lighting conditions in your painting. Here are some tips for working with artificial light:

Experiment with various light sources, such as spotlights, diffused lights, or colored lights, to create different moods and effects
Adjust the direction, distance, and intensity of light sources to create a particular atmosphere in your painting
Consider using multiple light sources to create interesting shadows and reflections

By mastering artificial light, you can create unique and dramatic abstract figure paintings with a professional touch.

Shadows and Reflection

Shadows and reflections can enhance the sense of depth and realism in your abstract figure painting. Here are some tips for incorporating shadows and reflections:

Observe how shadows and reflections change in response to the direction and intensity of the light source
Use a range of values, from dark to light, to create more convincing shadows and reflections
Experiment with the shape, size, and placement of shadows to add interest and dimension to your painting

By paying close attention to lighting and shadows, you'll be able to create abstract figure paintings that captivate and engage the viewer.

Tip 5: Experiment with Textures

Textures can bring an abstract figure painting to life, adding depth, interest, and a tactile quality to your artwork. There are numerous ways to incorporate texture into your paintings, ranging from traditional techniques to more experimental methods. In this section, we'll explore collage techniques, impasto, and sgraffito as ways to create stunning textures in your abstract figure paintings.

Collage Techniques

Collage is an excellent way to add texture and visual interest to your abstract figure painting. By incorporating various materials, such as paper, fabric, or found objects, you can create unique and personalized artworks. Here are some tips for using collage techniques:

Experiment with different materials, such as textured papers, fabric, or even metal foil, to create a variety of effects
Layer materials to create depth and dimension in your painting
Combine collage elements with paint to create a cohesive and harmonious composition

Collage techniques can add a playful, experimental quality to your abstract figure painting, making it truly one of a kind.

Impasto

Impasto is a painting technique that involves applying thick layers of paint to create a textured, three-dimensional effect. This technique can be particularly effective in abstract figure painting, as it adds depth and a sense of movement to your artwork. Here are some tips for using impasto:

Use a palette knife or a thick-bristled brush to apply generous amounts of paint to your canvas
Experiment with different brushstrokes and techniques to create a variety of textures, from smooth and flowing to rough and jagged
Consider using impasto in specific areas of your painting to draw attention to particular details or features

Impasto can add a dramatic, sculptural quality to your abstract figure painting, making it truly stand out.

Sgraffito

Sgraffito is a technique in which the artist scratches or etches into the surface of the paint to reveal underlying layers of color. This method can add interesting textures and patterns to your abstract figure painting. Here are some tips for using sgraffito:

Apply multiple layers of paint in contrasting colors, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next
Use a variety of tools, such as palette knives, toothpicks, or even your fingernails, to scratch or etch into the paint surface
Experiment with different patterns, lines, and shapes to create a unique and visually appealing design

Sgraffito can add a dynamic, energetic quality to your abstract figure painting, inviting the viewer to explore the hidden layers beneath the surface.

By experimenting with textures and techniques, you can create abstract figure paintings that are visually rich and engaging, capturing the imagination of your audience.

If you're interested in exploring the relevance and techniques of classical painting in today's art world, don't miss the workshop 'Classical Painting in the Modern Day' by Eric Drummond. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and techniques to incorporate classical painting methods into your contemporary art practice.