5 Tips for Creating Stunning Abstract Nature Art: A Complete Guide

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 8 min read

Creating stunning abstract nature art can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. By using the right techniques, materials, and inspiration, you can bring the beauty of the natural world into your artwork in a unique and captivating way. In this complete guide, we will share five tips to help you create eye-catching abstract nature art that will make a statement in any space.

Tip 1: Embrace the Unpredictability

Abstract nature art is all about capturing the essence of the natural world, and that means embracing the unpredictability and spontaneity that nature has to offer. Here are three ways to let go of control and allow your art to take on a life of its own.

Observe Nature

Take time to study the environment around you, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and textures of nature. You might find inspiration in the way leaves flutter in the wind, the patterns formed by clouds in the sky, or the movement of water in a stream. By observing nature closely, you can incorporate its unpredictable beauty into your abstract nature art.

Experiment with Materials

Don't be afraid to try new mediums and techniques in your artwork. Experimenting with different materials, such as acrylics, watercolors, or even unconventional items like sand or leaves, can add an element of surprise to your abstract nature art. You never know what captivating effects you might discover by stepping outside your comfort zone.

Trust Your Instincts

When creating abstract nature art, it's important to trust your instincts and let your intuition guide you. Instead of overthinking each detail, allow your creativity to flow naturally. Remember that there is no "right" or "wrong" way to create art, so give yourself permission to explore and experiment without fear of making mistakes.

Tip 2: Choose Your Colors Wisely

Color plays a crucial role in any artwork, and abstract nature art is no exception. By carefully selecting your colors, you can evoke specific moods, create depth, and add visual interest to your piece. Here are two aspects to consider when choosing colors for your abstract nature art.

Color Theory

Understanding color theory can help you make informed decisions when selecting colors for your artwork. Familiarize yourself with the color wheel and concepts like complementary, analogous, and triadic color schemes. By mastering these principles, you can create harmonious and visually appealing abstract nature art that draws the viewer in.

Color Inspiration from Nature

Look to the natural world for color inspiration. Observe the shifting hues of a sunset, the vibrant colors of a flower garden, or the subtle tones of a forest. By incorporating these natural color palettes into your abstract nature art, you can create a sense of connection between your artwork and the environment it represents.

Tip 3: Create Depth and Texture

Adding depth and texture to your abstract nature art can make it more visually engaging and dynamic. Here are two techniques to help you achieve this goal.

Using Mixed Media

Experiment with mixed media to create diverse textures and visual interest in your artwork. Combine different materials, such as paint, collage, and found objects, to build layers and add dimension to your abstract nature art. This approach can help you capture the complexity of the natural world in a truly unique way.

Creating Layers

Build up layers in your artwork to add depth and create a sense of space. You can achieve this by using transparent glazes, overlapping shapes and colors, or incorporating collage elements. By creating layers in your abstract nature art, you can convey a sense of depth that invites viewers to explore your piece more closely.

Tip 4: Find Inspiration from Famous Artists

Many well-known artists have created stunning abstract nature art, and studying their work can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Here are three artists whose work may inspire your own creative journey.

Georgia O'Keeffe

Georgia O'Keeffe, often referred to as the "Mother of American Modernism," is famous for her large-scale paintings of flowers, landscapes, and other natural elements. Her use of bold colors, organic shapes, and simplified forms can inspire you to create your own captivating abstract nature art.

Jackson Pollock

Jackson Pollock, known for his "drip paintings," created abstract works with intricate patterns and layers of paint. His innovative approach to applying paint — by dripping, pouring, and splattering it on the canvas — can encourage you to explore new techniques and push the boundaries of your abstract nature art.

Claud Monet

Claud Monet, a founder of French Impressionism, is renowned for his landscapes and scenes of nature, such as his iconic Water Lilies series. Monet's use of light, color, and brushstrokes to capture the essence of his subjects can inspire you to create your own impressionistic abstract nature art.

Sharing your abstract nature art with others can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and exposure. Here are three ways to showcase your work and connect with fellow artists and art lovers.

Post your artwork on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest to reach a wide audience and receive feedback from others. Use relevant hashtags, such as #abstractnatureart, to increase visibility and connect with like-minded artists.

Art Communities

Join online art communities and forums where you can share your work, participate in discussions, and learn from other artists. Websites like DeviantArt and WetCanvas offer platforms for artists to connect, share advice, and provide constructive criticism.

Local Art Galleries

Reach out to local art galleries or participate in art fairs to display your abstract nature art in a physical space. This experience allows you to engage with viewers in person, gather feedback, and potentially sell your artwork.

In conclusion, creating stunning abstract nature art requires embracing unpredictability, mastering color theory, adding depth and texture, seeking inspiration from famous artists, and sharing your work with others. By following these tips, you can create captivating and unique artwork that captures the essence of the natural world in an abstract form. So, grab your materials and start experimenting — the possibilities are endless!

Tip 3: Create Depth and Texture

One of the key aspects of captivating abstract nature art is the incorporation of depth and texture. By adding these elements, your artwork becomes more visually intriguing and dynamic. Here are two techniques that can help you achieve this effect in your creations.

Using Mixed Media

Mixed media can offer a wide range of textures and visual interest in your abstract nature art. By combining different materials, such as paint, collage, and found objects, you can create layers and dimensions that make your artwork stand out. This approach lets you capture the complexity of the natural world in a truly unique and engaging way.

Creating Layers

Building layers into your artwork adds depth and a sense of space, inviting viewers to explore your piece more closely. You can achieve this by using transparent glazes, overlapping shapes and colors, or incorporating collage elements. By creating layers in your abstract nature art, you can convey a sense of depth that sets your work apart from others.

With depth and texture in your abstract nature art, you can create pieces that are not only visually appealing but also provide a tactile experience. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and techniques — you never know what incredible effects you might discover!

Tip 4: Find Inspiration from Famous Artists

Looking to famous artists for inspiration is a great way to expand your creative horizons and develop your own unique style of abstract nature art. By studying the works of renowned artists, you can gain valuable insights into different techniques, color choices, and compositional elements that can enhance your own artwork. Let's explore the works of three famous artists who can inspire your abstract nature art journey.

Georgia O'Keeffe

Georgia O'Keeffe is known for her striking paintings of flowers, landscapes, and natural forms. Her ability to simplify and magnify the essence of her subjects, using bold colors and organic shapes, can inspire you to capture the beauty of nature in your own abstract creations. Consider the way O'Keeffe used colors and shapes to evoke emotions, and experiment with these techniques in your abstract nature art.

Jackson Pollock

Jackson Pollock's iconic drip paintings demonstrate the power of texture and movement in abstract art. His innovative action painting technique, in which he dripped and splattered paint onto the canvas, can inspire you to explore new ways of applying materials and creating expressive, dynamic compositions in your abstract nature art. Think about how Pollock's energetic style could be translated into your own work, perhaps by using a more controlled approach to capture the essence of natural forms.

Claude Monet

Although Claude Monet is best known for his Impressionist landscapes, his later works often blurred the line between representation and abstraction. Monet's use of loose brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and a focus on light and atmosphere can inspire you to create abstract nature art that captures the essence of a scene rather than its precise details. Study Monet's technique and consider how you can incorporate similar elements into your own artwork.

By examining the works of these famous artists, you can gain a deeper understanding of different approaches to abstract nature art and develop your own unique style. Remember, inspiration is all around you, so keep an open mind and let your creativity flow!

Sharing your abstract nature art with others is an essential step in your artistic journey. By gathering feedback from fellow artists, friends, and art enthusiasts, you can gain valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of your work, and continue to grow and improve as an artist. Here are some ways to share your art and gather feedback:

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are excellent tools for showcasing your abstract nature art to a wide audience. By posting your artwork and engaging with your followers, you can receive valuable feedback and even gain new fans of your work. Additionally, you can join art-related groups and communities on these platforms to connect with other artists and share ideas and techniques.

Art Communities

Online art communities, such as DeviantArt, Behance, and Dribbble, provide a space for artists to share their work, receive feedback, and connect with like-minded individuals. By joining these communities, you can learn from others, get inspired, and even collaborate on projects. Don't be shy—ask for feedback and constructive criticism to help you refine your abstract nature art skills.

Local Art Galleries

Local art galleries, exhibitions, and art fairs are excellent opportunities to showcase your abstract nature art in a physical setting. By participating in these events, you can receive direct feedback from viewers, interact with other artists, and gain exposure for your artwork. Reach out to local galleries and art organizations to find opportunities to display your work and connect with your local art community.

Sharing your art and gathering feedback is vital for your growth as an artist. Embrace the opportunity to learn from others and continuously refine your skills in creating stunning abstract nature art. Remember, the artistic journey is a never-ending process of growth and improvement—so keep creating and enjoy the adventure!

If you enjoyed our blog post and want to dive deeper into classical painting techniques 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 practical tips on how to incorporate classical painting methods into your contemporary art practice.