In this article, we want to talk about 10 Supplies for Abstract Floral Paintings. Join us
For each artist , vibrant, colorful abstract flower painting comes down to one thing supplies.
1_ Reference photos of florals
Even though I paint intuitively when I am creating abstract flower paintings, I always have photo references on hand from gardens I regularly visit. I keep an image bank of various botanicals on my phone so that I have variety in my line work and am not repeatedly using the same shapes stored in my mind’s visual library.
2_ Aquabords made by Ampersand
I LOVE THESE BOARDS! They accept all water-based media beautifully. They take a beating with as many layers as you throw at it without ever buckling. No more needing to stretch paper.
3_ Liquid acrylic inks
I always start my abstract floral paintings by spraying my Aquabord with water and applying drops of acrylic inks into the damp areas. Then, I move the board around to create all sorts of textures and blending which inform me where to go next.
4_ Watercolors
Once my surface is dry, I begin to add botanical shapes with watercolor by lightly building each layer. I love to overlap marks and use a variety of line weights, and the overlapping creates depth in the painting.
5_ Liquid Acrylic Gouache
After I feel satisfied with the watercolor markings, I use the Liquitex brand Liquid Acrylic Gouache to lay down flat shapes and to define negative shapes to create more interest in the composition
6_ Posca Paint Pens
They are basically acrylic paint in pen form and come in 3 different nib sizes. I use them to add fine lines and highlights. They are the best opaque pens I have found.
7_ Faber Castell’s Gelatos
Try them and you’ll need to clear your schedule! Gelatos have a buttery consistency like a fine quality oil pastel. Use it as that or add water and it becomes spreadable like watercolor.
8_ Brush Pen
This pen makes beautiful linework in different line weights, depending on how much pressure you apply. The ink is water-based pigment, water-resistant, and lightfast.
9_ heat gun
This is a great tool for any artist who works in layers, especially in collage. It reduces drying time so you can get on with the business of creating. It works with all water based media.
10_ Golden soft gel gloss medium
A wonderful medium used to seal layers as you work. If you’re not happy with the marks you put down, it’s wipeable until the medium dries. Layer it on with a sponge brush. It looks white as you apply, but dries completely transparent. Layer as many times as you wish. Use it as your final coat to seal your painting. I cover my initial layers a few times with this before applying the acrylic gouache.
