15 Abstract Painting Ideas

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Updated 09/06/19

People have a differing opinion on what constitutes an abstract painting. In general, abstract art strives to look different from reality, but it can depict nature using a variety of colors and shapes. Some people think abstract art is random and therefore, easy. However, the most awe-inspiring abstract art implements texture and design intentionally.

We don't need to have an artistic sensibility to enjoy painting. In most cases, following along with art tutorials takes the guesswork out of the composition and allows us to get lost in the process.

Looking for some inspiration to get started? These abstract painting ideas use different mediums and techniques that beginners and advanced painters can follow.

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Practice Abstract Watercolor Backgrounds

Kristina Werner

If your goal is to improve your watercolor techniques, check out this tutorial from Kristina Werner. There are five different backgrounds you can practice until you're confident enough to use one of the techniques on a piece of abstract wall art.

5 Super Easy Watercolor Backgrounds from Kristina Werner
02 of 15

Learn How to Paint Abstract Flowers

A Piece of Rainbow

Abstract flowers are whimsical and fun to paint once you learn a few basic skills. if you're new to painting, try following a tutorial first before you try painting them on your own. A Piece of Rainbow shows you how to replicate this flower garden wall art in less than fifteen minutes. Don't worry if it takes you longer.

Paint Watercolor Flowers in 15 Minutes from A Piece of Rainbow
03 of 15

Try a Progressive Watercolor Painting

Elise Engh Studios

If you're curious what a progressive watercolor painting is, check out this tutorial from Elise Engh Studios. The steps will show you how to make abstract art using a simple shape and watercolors.

Progressive Watercolor Art Tutorial from Elise Engh Studios
04 of 15

Replicate This Piece of Abstract Art

Kiley in Kentucky

Sometimes it can be hard to make acrylic paintings look less amateur. Many professionals use acrylics, but these paints are also used by a lot of beginners because they are really forgiving. They can also look really flat. This tutorial from Kiley in Kentucky works with the acrylic to make the texture look more like watercolors. Find out how she did it and then make one for yourself.

Step by Step Abstract Art Tutorial from Kiley in Kentucky

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05 of 15

Use an Ink Dropper to Create Backgrounds

Dawn Nicole

This abstract art technique uses an ink dropper and watercolors to create a one of a kind background. You could stop once the background is complete, but Dawn Nicole teaches you how to add transparent flowers on top.

Easy Abstract Watercolor Flowers Tutorial from Dawn Nicole
06 of 15

Stack Three Canvas for an Instant Wall Gallery

Lia Griffith

This abstract painting idea is especially easy for beginners to complete, but the final result doesn't look amateur either. Check out the tutorial from Lia Griffith to find out how to mix gold leafing with acrylic paints to achieve this look.

Easy Gold Foiled Art from Lia Griffith
07 of 15

Mix Blue and Yellow Together

Sarah Hearts

If you want to make your art look even better, consider learning some color wheel theory that can teach you about complementary, triadic, and analogous color schemes. However, if you don't feel like doing the research, it's usually safe to mimic the work of other designers for personal use. This abstract art from Sarah Hearts is well balanced and the colors work well together. Head to her tutorial to find out how to make one, too.

DIY Layered Abstract Wall Art from Sarah Hearts
08 of 15

Pick Three Coordinating Colors for a Geometric Print

A Beautiful Mess

If you are looking to make a big impact in a room, the larger the canvas the better. However, sometimes big canvases can be intimidating to paint. This tutorial from A Beautiful Mess will make large-scale abstract art a simple process that can be completed in an afternoon.

Abstract Modern Art DIY from A Beautiful Mess

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09 of 15

Give Acrylic Pouring a Try

k.becca

If you want to try out a painting technique that has unpredictable results, check out this tutorial from k. becca. Her website has a few different guides on acrylic pouring, and this example walks through the dirty pour flip cup technique.

Acrylic Pour Painting for Beginners from k.becca
10 of 15

Paint a Canvas Using Acrylics and Dye

The Painted Hive

There are a variety of ways you can use dye to create unusual, abstract patterns on canvas. This tutorial from The Painted Hive is easy to follow and teaches you how to create subtle abstract art that will look great in any home.

Abstract Art Tutorial from The Painted Hive
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Mix Gold, Black, and White Paint Together

Jennifer Rizzo

Creating a simple horizon point is an easy way to add a focal point to abstract paintings. Find out how you can fan out from that horizontal line in this tutorial from Jennifer Rizzo. The final result looks elegant and modern.

DIY Abstract Painting from Jennifer Rizzo
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Implement Bright, Cheerful Colors

Fall for DIY

This abstract artwork from Fall for DIY has graffiti vibes that might seem easy to achieve. However, balancing the colors evenly and creating a central focal point is vital in this composition. Taking your time with it will result in a work that looks abstract instead of looking like a child's painting. Head over to the tutorial for more insight.

DIY Abstract Artwork from Fall for DIY

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13 of 15

Paint a Pair of Abstract Paintings

Designing Vibes

In some cases, using only one color is ideal for a piece of abstract art. These art pieces will help anchor a room without being too busy or adding too many accent colors to a space. Check out this indigo art tutorial from Designing Vibes to create a pair of canvases that will elevate your living room.

Indigo Abstract Art from Designing Vibes
14 of 15

Create a Small Painting for a Gallery Wall

The Postmans Knock

Many of the abstract art tutorials featured here use large canvases with large-scale designs. This art tutorial from The Postmans Knock brings the scale of the canvas down but teaches you how to paint a busier pattern. Don't let the busyness intimidate you. This guide is beginner-friendly.

Watercolor Gold Abstract Art Tutorial from The Postmans Knock
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Spray on Some Paint Splotches

Erin Spain

There aren't many rules to follow when it comes to splotching paint on a canvas. However, the right setup can make the difference between an easy cleanup and a cleanup that involves paint everywhere you don't want it to be. Find out how Erin Spain completed this large scale abstract painting from start to finish on her thorough tutorial. You might learn something in the process.

Large Scale Abstract Art Print from Erin Spain