As the interest in non-representational art grows and artists become more adventurous, this important book helps the reader make the move towards abstract art through the use of colour - the hallmark of Claire Harrigan's work in mixed media. Fantastically illustrated throughout and with sound technical advice, the book covers: Understanding Abstract Art: concepts and influences; Beginnings: inspiration, starting points and preliminary work; Varied subject matter: still life, flowers, buildings and figures with details on how they evolved from the original inspiration; Basic Design: composition and the importance of structure; Surface and Colour: create mood, harmonies, contrast and tone; plus combining texture with techniques and colour; Considering and choosing different media: characteristics of acrylic, gouache, watercolour, oil, pastel and collage; and Mixed Media: the painting process of specific paintings, the compatibility of different media, both technically and visually; It also uncovers: Visual Impact: a look at, and discussion of, various examples; Analysis and selection: the process of abstraction and semi-abstraction may involve analysis, simplification, distortion or exaggeration as well as an emphasis on elements such as line, shape and colour, all demonstrated in different paintings; A step-by-step look at Claire Harrigan's paintings; and, Pure Abstraction: a look at paintings without any evidence of the initial subject matter or inspiration (word count 20,000)

About the Author

Robin Capon is an experienced author and art journalist, having written several books, including with co-authors, David Curtis: Light and Mood in Watercolour 9780713489552 and Abstract and Colour Techniques (with Claire Harrigan) 9780713490558. He is a regular contributor to The Artist and Leisure Painter. He lives in Lyme Regis, Dorset. Claire Harrigan studied at Glasgow School of Art and is a member of the Scottish Society of Artists and Craftsmen and the Royal Scottish Watercolour Society. She has won several awards for her. 

Prizes

Helps the reader make the move towards abstract art through the use of colour.

Reviews

'Let your imagination run riot by experimenting with the abstract...one of the clearest explanations of abstract we have seen'. Corel Painter magazine