Painting in the Abstract

Weeks 1 & 2: We begin with the post-war movement “Abstract Expressionism” (or The New York School)which established America and New York – for the first time – as a center for Western art. The  movement emphasized bold, gestural approaches to painting, new materials and newapproaches to shape, line and color. Each student will produce an individual abstract-style painting, based on the work of key artists of this period.

Weeks 3 & 4: The emergence of pop-art in the1960’s began to erode the popularity of Abstract Expressionism as it matured in America. Yet, unrestrained attitudes of 1960’s California produced an outgrowth of abstract art called “California Hard Edge Painting.” This West Coast style was known for its economic, geometric shapes, emphasising color sharpness and clarity. Hard Edge blossomed into a widespread movement in the 1960s, though Los Angeles was its creative center. Students will develop 3 hard-edge compositional designs with color chart references, and will produce paintings based on their compositions.

Weeks 5, 6  & 8: This brings us to current-day, leading-edge practices in abstract art. Contemporary abstract painting freely pushes all the artistic boundaries – manipulating ideas in design, materials, and application techniques. Our study includes artists in the U.S. and Europe, Asia and Middle East… all working at the highest levels of abstract expression. The instructor will emphasize a guided, yet boundary-free environment designed to free the imagination and inspire creativity. Students will produce 1 or 2  paintings using both traditional and non-traditional methods. They’ll explore new media and materials, and will use a variety of non-standard tools as a way of further developing their work.