Creating Abstract Art : My Story

So what is abstract art and how do you paint an abstract piece ?

This is a definition from the Tate ;

" Abstract art is art that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of a visual reality but instead use shapes, colours, forms and gestural marks to achieve its effect" www.tate.org.uk/art/art-terms/a/abstract-art

From an early age, abstract art has captivated me—the vibrant colours, the bold shapes, the rich textures, and, above all, the emotions a single canvas can stir. So when I rediscovered my passion for painting, I knew I wanted to create abstracts of my own.

At first, it seemed straightforward: set up an easel, pick up a brush, and let colour flow. But I quickly realised it isn’t quite that simple. Where do you begin? Some say, “Just splash paint on the canvas and push it around.” Yet true abstraction involves far more—intentional choices, exploration of form, and a conversation between instinct and technique.

Waves

This was probably one of my very first attempts on canvas—and after a few more experiments, I quickly discovered that abstract art isn’t as easy as it looks.

I realised I needed to dig a little deeper. Some of my struggles stemmed from my left brain stepping in, trying to control the process and make the painting “look like” something familiar. That analytical part of me was resisting the freedom abstraction calls for.

So how does an artist let go and create something truly expressive?

Art is often described as therapeutic and relaxing—and it is—but in those early days, I felt frustrated. I was trying too hard, searching for that elusive place where spontaneity flows and the painting takes on a life of its own. Letting go wasn’t easy, but it became a turning point in my creative journey

A Journey of Discovery

The turning point in my exploration of abstract art came when I started painting to music. Soft, chilled, or meditative tunes seemed to unlock something within me—helping me loosen up, quiet my inner critic, and truly feel the creative process. I found that playing music in the background let me relax into the painting. Sometimes, simply closing my eyes, taking a few deep breaths, and letting the rhythm wash over me was all it took to get started. I highly recommend trying it if you’re struggling to “let go.”

Through lots of early experimentation, I began to discover what worked for me and slowly developed my own voice within this expressive style. One of the most enjoyable parts was moving beyond brushes and exploring unexpected tools to create texture and movement. Over time, I built a small collection of unconventional items—credit cards, rolling pins, toothbrushes—each leaving its own unique mark. (I'd love to hear what unusual tools you’ve used too!)

Incorporating other mediums also opened up exciting possibilities. I started playing with modelling paste to add bold texture and discovered that gloss gel medium not only thickened the paint but also gave a beautiful sheen and depth. There’s a whole world of materials out there to explore—do some research and don’t be afraid to try something new.

If you're not sure where to begin, social media is an amazing resource. There are so many generous artists sharing tips, demos, and inspiration that can spark ideas and help you expand your technique. The most important thing? Stay curious, keep experimenting, and enjoy the journey.

Painting Process

I can honestly say that when I begin an abstract painting, I rarely know how it will turn out. There’s no set plan—just a feeling, an energy I want to follow. The process has become intuitive, guided more by emotion than intention.

What I do usually start with is a colour palette—three or four shades that speak to me in that moment. I lay them out beside me, ready to flow into the work.

At my side are my tools: folded pieces of card in different sizes, a few palette knives, and a couple of large brushes. These are what I reach for instinctively as I move with the painting, responding to each layer as it builds. It’s a conversation between the canvas and my inner world—unpredictable, free, and always revealing something new.

Red Mist

My current series of paintings often begin in a simple yet deliberate way: with small dabs of colour placed along the edge of the canvas. From there, I use folded pieces of card to drag the paint horizontally across the surface, allowing the colours to blend and interact in unexpected ways. Depending on how the initial layers develop, I may add more paint to the opposite edge and repeat the process—responding intuitively to the evolving composition.

The next phase involves pulling the card vertically, layering texture and movement into the work. It’s a dynamic, physical process that allows for spontaneity and surprise—no two strokes are ever the same.

In the piece shown here, that same technique brought the image to life. The background was created with a dry brush gently swept outward from the centre, catching just a whisper of colour and drawing it across the surface. This subtle motion adds softness and depth, balancing the bold, energetic marks beneath.

Each painting emerges through these layered gestures—guided by instinct, grounded in rhythm, and rooted in emotion.

When Is a Painting Finished?

After working with card for a while, I often switch to palette knives, layering more paint until I achieve an effect that feels right. The texture and movement this adds often brings the piece to life in new ways.

But then comes the big question: when is a painting truly finished?

For me, that answer doesn’t come immediately. I like to live with my paintings for a while—placing them somewhere in my home where I see them regularly. I walk past them, sit with them, and notice how they feel at different times of day and in different lighting. Over the next few days, I either get a strong sense that something else is needed—or I feel a quiet satisfaction, a sense that it’s complete.

And then, it’s time to let go and begin thinking about the next piece.

This is still only the beginning of my abstract journey. There’s so much more to explore, and I’m looking forward to sharing the process as it unfolds. I hope some part of this has been helpful or inspiring if you're exploring your own path in abstract art.

You can see a selection of my current works in the Abstract Gallery.

I’d love to hear how your own creative journey is evolving—feel free to leave a comment or reach out.

Thank you for being here.