What is a “bad” abstract composition? This video shows a broad range of abstract paintings, and the opinions of several artists as to why the compositions are effective or not.
- Watch the 3 min. version
- Watch the 47 min. version
The opinion of each artist on the abstract composition then stimulates a discussion on why a specific abstract composition is successful or not.
Discussion led by Art Prof Clara Lieu and Teaching Artists Lauryn Welch and Cat Huang.
Video Walkthrough
- Seeing abstract paintings in person
- Understanding abstract art
- Accessibility of abstract art
- Narratives in abstract art
- Hierarchy in a composition
- Rhythm, diagonals in composition
- Learning about abstract artists who are less well known.
- How a museum display affects abstract paintings.
- Creating depth in an abstract painting.
- Focal points in an abstract painting.
- Collage as a means of abstraction.
- The scale of an abstract painting dramatically affects our experience.
Prof Lieu’s Tips
I do think in general abstraction makes more sense on a larger scale, as that provides more opportunity to play with your tools.
On a small scale it can often be restricting as you can’t use the “entire” tool the way you can on a big scale.
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