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From Realism to Abstraction

A good way to experiment with abstraction is to start with a photo with good compositional structure.
Reference photo:
Picture

Abstract interpretation 1:
Picture

Abstract interpretation 2. In this version you are responding to Interpretation 1, not to the original reference photos.
Picture
From here you can continue making as many interpretations as you want.

From Realism to Abstraction, artist Frank Auerbach
Reference photo:
Picture
Responding to the movement of line in the painting above. Auerbach drew several variations that lead to an abstract painting:
Picture

With each new drawing the artist is responding to the previous drawing, not the original reference photo.
Picture
Picture

Once the artist was satisfied with his linear composition, he applied colors:
Picture

Again, the original reference photo:

Picture
Picture
Copyright © 2022, by Patrick Howe, all rights reserved.
Patrick Howe, Artist, Author and Educator
Seattle, WA.
Contact: patrick@patrickhowe.com
  • HOME
  • Oil painting classes
    • LIVE CLASSES SEATTLE
    • ONLINE CLASSES
    • WEEKLY DRAWING
    • ABOUT ONLINE CLASSES
    • OIL PAINTING SUPPLIES
    • ENDORSEMENTS
    • ABOUT CLASSES/ REVIEWS
    • OPEN STUDIO
    • GUARANTEE & TERMS
  • PORTFOLIOS
  • RESUME
  • STORE
  • FOR STUDENTS
  • BLOG
  • Contact / Sign up
  • MUSIC
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  • Thank you