Big & Bad Abstracts

Explore the fundamentals and creative potential of large-scale abstract painting, developing your confidence in working on substantial canvas sizes. This course teaches you to approach big, bold artistic projects with practical techniques and professional strategies.

Learn from instructor Kristen's personal process for creating impressive large-scale works, plus discover professional insights and industry best practices. You'll study accomplished artists who create at grand scales and examine the distinct phases of the painting process while building your own significant mixed-media artwork. Using confident brush strokes that engage your whole body with the canvas surface, discovering the proper equipment selections, and incorporating thoughtful planning, you'll gain the skills and assurance to confidently produce impressive, monumental artistic pieces.

Important Notes on Prerequisites:

This course is specifically designed for artists with previous painting experience who have completed at least a few Level 2 courses and demonstrate proficiency working with acrylic paints.

Required Materials for Week One Participation:

This is a hands-on studio class where you'll use personal art supplies. Please bring the following supplies for the first session:

• Large canvas or wood panels measuring at least 48 inches on one side (for example, 36x48 inches or larger; the instructor demos using sizes like 40x60 and 30x70)

Canvas and Panel Options:

Option 1: Obtain a roll of loose, unstretched canvas that you can fasten to a large foam board sheet measuring 1/2 inch thick for structural support.

Option 2: Purchase two to three identically sized canvases or wood panels to create a multi-panel composition (example: two 40x40 panels combine to form a 40x80 inch piece).

Option 3: Acquire a single large canvas or panel if you can transport it safely, such as using a minivan or similar vehicle.

Additional Required Supplies:

• Paintbrushes in varied sizes, prioritizing larger brushes for expansive work
• Acrylic paints in varied colors, particularly thinner formulations like soft body, fluid, or high-flow options
• Large application tools you already own (painting knives, kitchen utensils, scrapers, large sponges)
• Large drawing materials you currently own, such as Marabu Art Crayons, Art Graf pastels, Stabilo Woodies, Caran d'Ache Neocolor II pastels, or Derwent XL Charcoal
• Palette paper for paint mixing
• Palette knives for mixing and application
• Viva paper towels or Blue Shop towels for cleanup