Abstract Watercolor Painting
If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you’ll know I’ve been creating art as long as I can remember. I’ve also tried lots of different mediums, techniques, and styles, But the thing is that I just keep coming back to watercolors… They are light, ethereal, and a bit magical. I love the fact that they are easily portable, they don’t smell strong, and they are pretty unpredictable. Yes, I actually look forward to not knowing exactly how my painting will turn out! It may sound crazy, but that’s where it gets really fun.
With the stress and strain that is coming from dealing with the pandemic, I wanted to offer a place of solace for those who could find comfort in art creation.
That’s why I decided to produce a series of abstract watercolor painting classes this season.
Abstract Watercolor Painting-Shapes in progress.
So I made these classes easy, approachable, and free of charge for several months. On top of that, the classes are all at beginner level so anyone can take them and not fall in over their head. They are also interesting enough to satisfy an experienced artist looking to try something new and just chill.
Actually, I discovered this relax and flow painting process when I was in need of some sanity myself.
Desperate to find some stillness and peace one day early on in lockdown, I grabbed a sheet of watercolor paper and my favorite Winsor and Newton watercolor tube set. Then I instinctively brushed some water onto the paper and dropped the first color my brush happened to hit, into the water on the page. I added another color and started to watch them run and flow into each other.
It was like a dance, graceful and mesmerizing. I did this again and again on different sheets of paper and soon I was humming to myself and feeling positive again. It was that simple.
Abstract Watercolor Painting- Backgrounds in process.
The next day I was brainstorming ideas for my next Skillshare class when it suddenly hit me. Would my experience from the day before be relatable to others? Would they feel that simple joy of getting lost in the paint and not worry about how it looked or compare it to anyone else's work? Isn’t that what art should be? We are all inherently creative and yet we cruelly compare ourselves to big name and popular artists, thinking if our work does not look like their’s we can’t possibly be artists.
Yes those painters are amazing, but so are you in your own way!
It’s just a matter of finding what makes your heart sing. If you enjoy it, then it’s worth doing. I hope these classes help you to take a step in that direction.
Abstract Watercolor Painting- Backgrounds is the first class in the series and focuses on painting easy textured background style abstracts with interesting techniques added to spice them up a bit. I’ve used these for many social network posts and media covers. Some of my students have used them for Instagram Story backgrounds or framed them on their walls.
Abstract Watercolor Painting- Shapes is the second class in the series and, you guessed it, is a study on basic shapes painted in watercolors using several different techniques. In this one, I’ve included two different projects. One is a stand alone random and unplanned study of shapes, and the other is a combination of projects from both classes with a more planned composition.
If you’re a member of Skillshare, you can access the classes anytime. If not, I’ll give you 1 month free!
I now have four classes in this series, and I hope that you will decide to try your hand at some abstract watercolor magic. If you’re a beginner, you may be surprised at how much fun and how natural this type of painting can be. If you are experienced and just want to relax and play a bit, this class is perfect for you too. I have taken many basic art courses lately, and have been surprised at how much I have learned by just being open to another artist’s approach.
Ready to jump into abstract watercolor painting? Click the button below to access them all on my Skillshare page:
If you have questions about the class, or you’ve taken the class and want to comment, I’d love to read your questions or comments below. Oh! And I’ve made a special gift just because you stopped by!
Free Abstract Watercolor Painting Wallpapers
I have made you some free Abstract Watercolor Painting wallpapers for your phone, tablet, or computer. Or use all three if you like. I often have matching wallpapers so my workflow feels seamless. Plus I just like to match… Enjoy!! : -)