Exploring the Elements of Abstraction with Mardi de Veuve Alexis

This 3-session class occurs in 3 separate weeks.

In this class we will be exploring and applying three of the significant art elements utilized in the construction of abstract compositions. Each session provides ample time to explore the many aspects of the element being introduced. Demonstrations by the instructor as well as class critiques of student work will be included.

Session 1: Applying line:

Thin, thick, straight, curved

Creating line to communicate or create compositional subject or meaning

Using line to communicate and/or enhance emotional response (e.g.: playful, anger, sadness, excitement, etc.)

Tools (pencils, charcoal, ink pen, markers, oil stick)

Integrating stencils and mono-printing

Demonstration

Student work & class critique

Session 2: Applying shapes and mark making:

Working with squares, triangles, rectangles, circles

Creating shapes as compositional elements

Understanding shapes and balance in abstract composition

Application of cut-out shapes

Types of mark making and examples

Asemic writing/mark making

Demonstration

Student work & class critique

Session 3: Integrating Collage:

Understanding the genesis of collage as an artistic element of abstract art

Compositional considerations

Applications of collage: adhesives, tools, technique and tools

Examples of collage papers and other materials (e,g, cloth, used canvas, corrugated papers, burlap, etc)

Self -leveling gel and other finishing mediums

Demonstration

Student work & class critique

Suggested Materials:

1. PAINTING SURFACES:

12 x 14 (or larger recommended) canvas or wood panel (recommend back stapled canvas)

Heavy paper - e.g., watercolor paper (Arches 140 or 300 pound recommended)

Sketch Pad - Spiral-bound Aquabee or Canson mixed media sketchbook

This is a high-quality acid-free paper can be used with variety of media and can be painted on.

Choose minimum size 11 x 14”

2. DRAWING ELEMENTS: (sketch) pencils, - Charcoal sticks: both vines and thick/heavy duty

Poska markers, Indian ink (optional)

3. ACRYLIC PAINTS:

Use your own discretion as to your own needs:

I recommend Professional Grade Liquitex tubes, Nova acrylics and Golden products, including Golden fluids.

Suggestions: Cadmium Yellow Light or Medium, Phthalocyanine Blue (green shade), Cadmium Orange, Phthalocyanine Green, Cadmium Red Light (warm red), Ivory Black, Pyrrole Red (cool red, or your preference), Titanium White, Quinacridone Magenta, Ultramarine Blue

Choose additional colors to add to your palette according to your preference: Yellow Oxide (Ochre), Quinacridone Red, Burnt Sienna, Acra Magenta, Burnt Umber, Paynes Gray, Sap Green or Green Gold, Brilliant Blue, Hookers Green, Dioxazine Purple

3. ACRYLIC MEDIUMS:

Matte Medium

Matte gel (medium to heavy recommended)

4. BRUSHES:

Choose a variety of sizes – Larger brushes are better for larger surfaces. Minimum of 3 brushes

Suggested: #2 #3 (round), filbert #5 #6#7, flat #8 or #1; 2” inexpensive flat brush for gesso and varnish

7. OTHER APPLICATION MATERIALS:

- R & F Pigment sticks – assorted colors of your choice (especially recommended are Titanium White and Ivory Black). Purchase at Jerry’s Artarama or on Amazon

8. TOOLS - Important:

Plastic putty spatula (1 1/2-2" ok) One larger one for bigger application is also recommended. (Available at Home Depot, etc.)

Brayer (s) (2" - 3")

Palette knife (various shapes and sizes- plastic are fine)

Miscellaneous:

Scraping and mark-making tools such as old credit cards, chop sticks, 5” Squeegee

9. PALETTE:

Palette Paper in a pad or Freezer paper (comes in a roll, available at the market) is the least expensive and can be cut to size.

​MISCELLANEOUS SUPPLIES:​ plastic gloves, spray bottle – (for water), water container

Pencils – soft; Paper Towels, Masking tape, Scissors

Host or Publisher Artists Council