elements & principles

[briansommers]

I am an abstract artist. Every so often i like to reflect back on the basic elements of art and the principals of design.

I think i know the answer but just wanting to make sure. You just use just a few of each correct ?

[claude j greengrass]

Originally Posted by briansommers

I am an abstract artist. Every so often i like to reflect back on the basic elements of art and the principals of design.

I think i know the answer but just wanting to make sure. You just use just a few of each correct ?

...or even just one design element + one basic compositional design (armature) + a unifying 'mother' colour. Myrna Wacknov proposed a painting challenge around this idea on her blog. Sandy Maudlin has posted a follow-up of this idea on her blog. Well worth a read.

[cfo]

Thanx, Claude, for these links, they were very helpful!
Happy painting,
Charri

[creativechrissy]

Hummm. I would say for abstract design, harmony and unity is most important. Asymmetry too. This can be acheived through Colour and tone. Try for a high key or low key painting or defined contrast areas.

[Basalt]

Anything Goes

[Gwenever]

Beautiful Art! What inspires your work?

Im definitely not an expert. I have done a little bit of abstract and design. I agree with the artists that say once you know all the rules well, then break them!
In my experience, setting your own rules for each new work is one of the most exciting aspects of absract art and/or design. They overlap in many cases, dont they? Its like composing a piece of music in A minor with a motif that is faster in tempo and louder than the rest. The end result might be the elements in harmony and balance with each other ... or tension, whatever the case, etc. I remember one piece where I focussed on color, shape, and repetition, but in the end, much more appeared to be involved. Embrace the unexpected, adapt to change, and have fun!
Whats your take on abstract art that looks like there's way too much going on in the overal design? What do you think is too much? Any examples?
-wendy

[briansommers]

what inspires my work?
the work itself.. I only know what the next step is.. I do one thing then react to that - always keeping composition paramount! Making sure your eye doesn't wonder off to the edge or stay at one place to much.. pleasing colors, etc.