How to Paint Abstract Artwork for Beginners

In this class "Abstract Approaches" we will begin by taking a look at my 'Embracing the Contrast' approach. It's a method that I've developed to help get you all through those annoying "stuck places" and allow you to build momentum and become more confident with the "next move" in a painting.
Visit tracyverdugo.com/ for more freebies and online classes!

[@libbysorensen7625]

I started painting a year and a half ago. I put away all of my stuff a month ago. I felt like I was absolutely horrible. My life is turned upside down right now and what I have learned is that painting was the core to centering myself. I just got it back out today. Your video is really educational and so helpful for me. I love abstract and want to learn more about myself while painting. Thanks!!! AWESOME work!

[@yolandamcclellan643]

Yes, felt the same way until I saw this video!

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

I’m so glad you got so much out of it Libby! I hope you’ve been finding time for more creative practice. It’s so healing!

[@Dy8632]

@@yolandamcclellan643 hello 👋🏻

[@trenaoelschlager3981]

Have you thought of collaging into an art journal? You could even collage art into an old book or dollar store book ...or a fancy new art store journal...FUN!FUN!

[@dianecharest8365]

Don't feel that way. I started just about a year ago and I still am trying. I think because we watch all of these artists and we compare ours to their's, which makes ours look ugly. I guess it's prob only normal. I've invested too much money on materials to ever quit. Anyways, your not alone. I guess it takes a while to actually get it. There is soooo much to learn. I myself have come a long way from my first attempt at abstract.

[@danielalondongirl933]

As a primary school teacher for 20 yrs I hve to say-what an AWESOME teacher you are, deconstructing the elements and demonstrating, so much skill and great techniques…so calm and just fascinating teaching style and presence. I could only dream of taking one of your courses. A huge warm hug to the best teacher Ive seen so far on youtube. Wow! ❤❤🎉

[@tracyverdugo]

Thank you so much! What a lovely compliment 💛

[@ivyfasko9699]

This is the greatest video on artistic methodology I've seen yet! Teachers are always telling me to "play" well hell, I have no idea what that means in the context of facing a piece of paper with some paint in my hand. I really appreciate the time you've taken to develop the list of contrast words, and to make this video. So absolutely super. I've come back to it again and again.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thanks so much for your kind words and enthusiasm Ivy! You're welcome to come over and join my alumni group on FB. It's a wonderfully supportive community

[@Dy8632]

Hello lvy

[@tracyverdugo]

I’m so glad you were able to learn from this class Ivy! I hope you’re finding lots of time for creativity 💕

[@andreaharley4047]

This video is one year old but i still watch it over and over. its simlpe and very well explained and so inspiring. Thanks Tracie im off to my art studio now to paint away. x

[@HeiderosesPhotograph]

ONE OF THE BEST ABSTRACT PAINTING TUTORIALS, THANK YOU SO MUCH :)

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thank you Ann. That’s so kind of you ❤️

[@susanmiller126]

I found your KZbin tutorials so informative that I purchased your full Abstract Mojo. No regrets. You are a superb instructor and a beautiful spirit, to boot! Thank you!

[@James-zi5hq]

Hello 👋, how are you doing today; how’s everything going over there; hope it was a blessed day for you?

[@debrapiletz2650]

I’m not sure how or why your KZbin video popped up, but so glad it did. Your video is so valuable. Thank you.

[@laurasawochka7893]

Thank you so much for the FREE tutorial Tracy. I loved it all and I learned so much.

[@deborahtaylor7902]

I adored this segment. Best ever instruction on abstract art especially for a beginner. I’m hooked. Excellent thank u so much

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thanks so much Deb! So glad you got something out of it

[@terryhorowitz7076]

I completely agree!! Fabulous!! Thank you so much! And I'm definitely going to check out the inks...😃

[@elizabethgraham8819]

By far, one of the best tutorial on contrast that I have seen; I learned so much, thank you!

[@janetmckelvey8622]

One of the best tutorials I have seen on abstract painting. I cannot wait to apply all that I have learned. Thank you very much.

[@pennypistol]

I agree! So helpful thank you so much!

[@Shalinee2212]

I really appreciate how you think out loud as you work. It really helps to hear your thought process. I'd love to get a list of the paints and inks you used. Thanks

[@talismannz]

The birds in the background have set my budgies off - now I can't concentrate 🤣

[@SingYourselfWell]

Hi Tracy. Thank you so much. For several months now I kept seeing your ads on IG. Since I'm so new to all this, KZbin took pity on me today, apparently, haha, and showed me this entire video. Good God, woman, this is so fantastic and inspiring. Thanks so much. I'll be following alongside you for sure!

[@tracyverdugo]

💜💜

[@marypartridge5154]

Not easy doing this. People think its easy but getting it right takes,me ages. Thanx so much for having the guts to share this with us.

[@andreaharley4047]

I love your approach as you simplify and dont complicate art which can be daunting at times. Thankyou.x

[@tbird2434]

I was having a rough day and I stumbled upon your creative spirit-Thank you! beautiful teaching and reaching my soul! Quite UPLIFTING!

[@jillpratt2447]

Fantastic class, Tracy! You call it a ‘mini lesson’ but you packed in so much! Truly a valuable video! Thank you!

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

You’re welcome Jill!

[@Dy8632]

Hello Pratt

[@chrissafford577]

Very grateful for your generosity! I have been working as an artist for some time but really needed some inspiration to break through a barrier with some new tools! Especially love your colours and will try to break out of my more minimal colour choices. Many thanks and good wishes from Canada!!

[@johannerousseau7800]

My my my ! Thank you, I luv every step you took us in, now I feel I understand the structure of an abstract art. Merci beaucoup 🤩

[@rhondaporro7116]

HELLO FROM MINNESOTA. WOW!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH, FOR PRESENTING THIS PARTICULAR CONTENT ,VERY ENLIGHTENING!! I ENJOYED IT VERY, VERY MUCH!! BRAVO!!

[@KathyHilger]

Love your teaching style! I’m so excited to find you Tracy! Thank you so much for sharing this mini class

[@fiammavalli3732]

The pieces work perfectly all together, I can see them framed with thin black frames all in a wall in an entrance or in a office , in an important room I will hang a 2x3 foot painting

[@manontheoret2153]

Just stumbled over your video, as I was getting a bit bored with my art’s beginning. Best lesson ever with your artistic processes explained. You are a real teacher. Thanks so much, Merci !

[@heidilund6255]

WOW...thanks for your superbly demonstrated abstract art...super inspired!!! I'm blessed xx

[@dianecharest8365]

Thank you so much Tracy. Im glad to revisit your page. Ive learned soooo much more since the last time i watched your videos, which makes it soooo much easier to understandvwhat you are teaching. Btw you have a great way of teaching. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@luciedetullio8796]

Really inspiring abstract painting tutorial! Thank you!

[@eglemark3901]

You are so radiant, honest artist and the way you introduce painting is really encouraging to start drawing without a fear. You are so soo right saying that we are too much focused on everything to be perfect immediately and we loose the precious chance to explore further. I believe art is a great way to know ourselves and our behaviours in life. Starting drawing from today :)

[@debbiecorke7521]

Thank you so much for sharing - I’m an absolute beginner in abstract art and I learnt loads - not only about techniques but your style and encouragement are inspiring me to have a go and sign up for a paid class. Thank you so much.

[@rosecrerar6384]

Abstract has intrigued me but never understood the process. Thank you. Definitely going to try this.

[@allisonjames2923]

Lol. As soon as you said “you might be feeling frustrated” the darn storm bird started squawking. I detest those birds with their repetitive loud squawk. Very interesting exercise & will definitely try a contrast exercise. Still only half way through so looking forward to the result.

[@kathyamorris2088]

I have been searching for ways to approach my intuitive abstract work. I do get STUCK. And I keep pushing through. But sometimes I feel as if I am repeating myself. I appreciate the word list and the idea of pushing the contrasts. Well done! Thank you very much indeed.

[@anitadebnam1850]

A revelation of a lesson. Fantastic!

[@enamary1]

Excellent tutorial Tracy, thank you. And how lovely to hear a Koel calling in the background.

[@margaretking5086]

Great instructions and such a calm relaxed personality you have, so thanks very much

[@josephtermeer4595]

I had a 4th grade teacher show us how to make bushes by making scribbles. I still use this technique at 54. I wish you could have been my teacher then, i would have been so far ahead of the game!

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

What a sweet message to receive. Thank you!

[@TerrieJohnson731]

Brand new to abstraction after a few years of amateur illustration, your class has helped me a lot 🎉 Thank you 💖

[@tracyverdugo]

Hi Terrie, I’m so glad this was helpful to you. I have a much larger course on my site called Abstract Mojo. You can purchase individual modules or the whole course and it’s self paced and yours to keep forever. 😊

[@sigrunasa]

Very interesting to follow your thinking about what comes next. So informative and I just love the glazing warm colors. Thank you.

[@AlwaysHappy494]

The best of the best. Thank you Tracy.

[@soosiemac]

Thank you, I absolutely loved that. A real insight into taking seemingly disparate images forward. I find it difficult not to make images INTO something real, and was quite cheered when you mentioned how tribal one piece had become as that was exactly what I was thinking. I saw elements of caring, of drawing together, in the arcing half circles that linked shapes, whether or not you intend that! Very inspirational. Thank you. X

[@gregharald1072]

Hi there

[@gerribrown7602]

This is one of the best videos I’ve watched on KZbin! Your work is beautiful and you’ve taught me a ton! Thank you.

[@robinanicol1961]

Thank you so much, Tracy, that was absolutely splendid! I teach abstract art here in Mexico, and I shall gladly introduce some of these elements to my classes. I'm completely relaxed after listening to your gentle voice, explanations, and products used. You are subscribed and I look forward to more inspiration. I've visited Australia many times, love the sound, colour and voices of a special country. Gracias from a POM in Mexico.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Oh thats wonderful Robina! Mexico is like a second home for us as my husband has lots of family there. Where are you living. I miss travelling so much!

[@annabelleavila6593]

What a wonderful class!!! You are a pleasure to listen to and learn from! Thanks so much for sharing your amazing talents with us! 🤗🥰💖

[@junimondin]

Thank you for this great tutorial - i had a lot of fun hanging this time out with you

[@fatoomgierdien2181]

A Phenomenal Lesson!! Beautiful examples of so many contrasts and feelings as the artworks progressed. Thank YOU MUCH from Cape Town.

[@jacquimachin9841]

I think this great lesson might be a big help to me to loosen up and open up inspiration when you feel you have a mental block Which is often these days. Thank you

[@shalombeinginart7524]

Hello my name is Aishwarya. I am from India 🇮🇳 I dont have any words to explain how thankful I am to you for this video. For the first time any artist has actually helped me to learn actual techniques for me to be able to start this art form. Its not everything I know, it is a huge world of abstract, but still i know where to start from. I also believe in go with the flow, so I am not planned n prepared before start painting my abstracts.. thank you so so much 😊

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

You're so welcome! Just getting around to replying here but loving your work in my alumni group Aishwarya!

[@pushpachawla3874]

Tracy you are a magician

[@sharonthorne1701]

This is just what I wanted, to learn how to create an abstract piece. Thank you.

[@iliassakalak]

My respect!!! I am deeply impressed!! Well done!

[@Mariannevieitez]

New subscriber. Really enjoying this lesson! I have niver tried abstract art before but this has inspired me to follow along and see what I come up with . Your so good at explaining things for someone who’s new to this

[@millyyoung531]

WOW! I'm a believer. Sign me up for all your classes. You instructions are clear and reasoned and best of all the class is inspiring. Thank you!.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thanks so much Milly! I hope you found some classes to inspire!

[@AndreaBeltran]

This tutorial was great! I sped it up... so very helpful, thank you!

[@saharm2454]

What an amazing informative video! Thank you 🙏

[@moirachapman8406]

Absolutely love your style, you have inspired me to start painting again❤

[@judyhammond3181]

Thank you for your generosity. Great ideas. Good examples of not giving up.

[@dswede5541]

So inspired to let my inner artist out to play. The collage piece was incredible!

[@louiselevin9861]

You are amazing in your ability to express what and why you are making marks, adding pieces. Fab!

[@tracyverdugo]

Thanks so much Louise! So glad you enjoyed it! ❤️

[@julialimbrick333]

You are an amazing teacher. Thank you for sharing your creative process with us. You've given me some great ideas and also help me realize some mistakes I was making in my own creative process of mixed media art and abstract art.

[@somazach]

Loved your simplicity & calm voice….seeing your video for the first time & I am completely hooked !!

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thanks so much Soma!

[@elizabethburnett3977]

Just found you through Instagram and KZbin - easy to follow and quite inspirational. I’m signed up! Before all else, I’m going to my studio right now to play and study contrast. Thank you

[@lauralaladarling3775]

Hello, Thank you so much for your professional creative abstract art class which is wonderful and inspirational. I loved every moment and, as per other comments, appreciate your generosity in sharing your knowledge and creative process to help us develop techniques and fire-up out creativity. Xxxx

[@jefferythomas7038]

Hi what a pretty picture you've on your profile! Just decided to stop by and say Hi!! I hope my compliment is appreciated 😊❤

[@carynpercell8979]

Ps I thoroughly loved watching your lesson! It broke down abstract for me in a way I wasn’t able to put it all together! The list and was such a simple yet huge game changer!! It opened my brain up to feeling like there is a plan and a way to execute abstract! I love abstract but just felt like mine was so all over the map and nothing cohesive! It gives me a whole new way to look at art thru a different lens!

[@tracyverdugo]

So happy to inspire! ❤️

[@karleebell7911]

Thankyou for this wonderful class & your wonderful teaching, you have given me the inspiration i sorely needed!

[@alanhillier1033]

Just watched this vid,real eye opener,👍🏼 from the UK🇬🇧...subscribed

[@prairiemomof2]

I went online hoping to find some direction for abstract painting/mixed media. This online tutorial went above and beyond what I ever expected! Not only was there a logic behind the instructor's thinking, but she described it so clearly that it was something I'll be able to keep in my artist's toolbox for the future! I feel like I can follow/duplicate her logic in my own work and I imagine that it will absolutely be constructive in my future work! Thank you!

[@James-zi5hq]

Hello 👋, how are you doing today; how’s everything going over there; hope it was a blessed day for you?

[@handsonwithharriet1749]

Thank you for this class. It helped me to understand abstract so much better.

[@sherrismith4754]

I am an amateur abstract painter and I loved this video. It is especially helpful when stuck on what to do next. I wrote your list down in my art journal. Great educational video a way to think for ourselves and yet an example on how it looks. Thank you. I wish there were more videos.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

So glad it was helpful for you Sherri! I have another freebie called She Tribe on my site at tracyverdugo.com and lots of other more extensive online classes!

[@jefferythomas7038]

Hi what a pretty picture you've on your profile! Just decided to stop by and say Hi!! I hope my compliment is appreciated 😊❤

[@catlover8034]

Fantastic!!! Such an inspiring video. Thank you so much for sharing. ❤

[@lyndahammond9959]

This is such a great way to create 😃 I also love the birds in the background hope they get there commision.

[@marykayewells1440]

In. Few words - I absolutely loved alllll of this. Your voice is gentle warm and inviting. Wonderful content. Bless you bunches.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thanks so much MaryKaye!

[@paulagallimore3127]

Such an inspiring and insightful way to approach creating art... intuitive yet deliberate.

[@kathydiaz3873]

WoW! Exceeded my expectations! Thank you, so much!

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

You're welcome

[@daminyc4069]

New subscriber; just happen to find ur channel & I’m so happy that I did I’m so loving this thank you so much you are amazing God bless 👍🏻

[@elainerosenberg3018]

I enjoyed your abstract lesson. I'm an abstract artist, but am always open to learning new techniques. Good job!

[@harrieth7003]

Wow what an incredible teacher. SO glad this auto played for me! So much to learn. Love using the opposites prompts.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

So happy it was helpful for you!

[@savharali]

Thank you SO much for this FREE tutorial! I'm usually a fluid art painter (hobby) and as I adore abstact art, I thought I'd like to try Intuitive Absract. I've been trying for a couple of months, not so successfully. I'm going to follow your '15 pieces of paper' to the letter! I've downloaded your video as a 'go to' reference.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Hope you had fun with it Savvas!

[@amandasutton1839]

How very interesting. Thank you. Loved the background bird sounds!

[@t2terri]

I really enjoyed this demo... maybe helps me loosen up tight style. Thank you for your time!

[@fatoomgierdien2181]

The video is Fantastic!! Thank YOU. From Cape Town.

[@bethhwacinski9249]

Just found this! Really enjoyed your discussion and "playfulness" on the papers.

[@ib5770]

thank you for such a wonder introduction to abstracts. It has inspired me - and I love the birds calling in the background!

[@Dy8632]

Hello IB

[@cecyarias4892]

I wish I could see the wonderful birds! I can hear them in the background and make a picture of them , very intriguing how they look! Great class, clear, calm and exiting piece of art.

[@James-zi5hq]

Hello 👋, how are you doing today; how’s everything going over there; hope it was a blessed day for you?

[@tingeling4443]

Thank you so much, Tracy. Wonderful teacheing 🧡

[@berylmastroianni9669]

Thank you, throughly enjoyed this presentation.You are so inspiring.And yes you live in a beautiful part of the world. That alone would gets the creative juices flowing

[@Paradise01able]

Loving your work Tracy...I hope to use some of your ideas along with acrylic Flow paintings that need embellishment.....with your teaching, I think I can. Thank you!

[@MultiMartina12]

This is a wonderful, very inspiring course, Tracy. Thanks a lot❤

[@wendyglabe9497]

Thanks so much. This video is awesome. I have bought art materials but hardly used them worried about creating less then awesome art.

[@reinability]

Hi Tracy! I really love your style!! Thanks for share!!

[@viviannedelavega605]

Absolutely Love it !!!

[@James-zi5hq]

Hello 👋, how are you doing today; how’s everything going over there; hope it was a blessed day for you?

[@CaroleWeaveLane]

This was most interesting and I am just at a stage where I wish to pursue this area more in my life. I am a writer, but I feel I need to step into Art more as a means to express myself better. Thank you, you have given me much to think of and experiment with.

[@alrenefischer4481]

I am loving this , thank you

[@dianegreen2139]

That was a great class easy to understand. Thank you!

[@jefferythomas7038]

Hi what a pretty picture you've on your profile! Just decided to stop by and say Hi!! I hope my compliment is appreciated 😊❤

[@cburkeen]

This was awesome ... thank you!!!!

[@paulettemorgan9959]

I love this tutorial.It was quite a learning experience.

[@zainoesuleman-jappie6164]

Hello Tracy. I have just come across your video for Beginners. Thank you so much. Ive subscribed and now looking forward to your learning much more. I must admit hat abstract work in progress gave me anxiety. You made it so enjoyable and most of all doable for a complete novice like me. I am in Cape Town South Africa and hope to catch your livestreams no matter the time. God Bless

[@micheleneconradie4997]

Thank you so much for your tutorial. I feel I learned a lot. I’d love to attend some of your classes. I’m in the Blue Mountains so will have to wait until restrictions lift. In the meantime, your on line lessons are very helpful and oh, so beautiful! God bless you and stay safe.🤗🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thank you Michelene! I'm late to reply and I'm so sorry you're in lockdown again! I have two workshops coming up in Huskisson in November. Something to look forward to and you can find out more here.

[@sherrellharrod2537]

I’m a beginner painter and I’m moving forward with abstract painting I’m more comfortable with that I love how thorough you were in breaking down abstract thru words and emotions that was GREAT and easy to understand I’ll use that as a starting point for now on till I gets you lol!!!

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

So glad it was helpful for you Sherrell!

[@lindalori52]

LOOK at the date of this. And then Covid came to town. I remember well. I had seen this back then and glad to have rediscovered it. Need more of your energy and brilliance. Thank you.

[@tracyverdugoclasses]

Thanks LJ! Yes we've all been in need of some creative distraction. I'll be adding more to my KZbin channel very soon! Stay tuned!

[@shannonclarke4013]

Wow! So thorough. I learned so much! Thank you!!!!!