Mastering Brushstroke Techniques for Abstract Acrylic Painting: A Beginner-Friendly Guide
Brushstrokes form the language of painting, especially in abstract acrylic art where visible, expressive marks convey emotion, rhythm, and movement. Artist Jessi of EttaVee shares her signature approach to vibrant, bold brushstroke creation in her tutorial on brushstroke techniques for abstract acrylic painting. This post explores these foundational techniques, equipping painters of all levels to develop their own confident and striking brushwork.
Choosing the Right Brush: The Starting Point
The journey begins with the brush. Jessi’s go-to tool is a Simply Simmons 1” oval wash watercolor brush known for its versatility and perfect brushstroke production. While expensive brushes aren’t necessary, using an oval wash or any similar wide brush with soft edges is ideal for abstract acrylic paintings.
Basic “Down-Up” Brushstroke
The fundamental brushstroke style is a “down-up” motion, starting with firm pressure on the downward stroke and releasing into a lighter, looser upward motion to create a soft, wispy edge. This foundational stroke forms “V” shapes across the canvas, providing a lively motion to your painting. Practicing this motion builds muscle memory and brush control.
Background Wash Stroke
A key starting point is the background wash. Using the flat part of your brush, apply color across the canvas with the down-up stroke described above. Vary your pressure from firm at the start to light at the end to produce painterly edges and smooth transitions. This technique provides excellent color coverage, delivering a cohesive shape to your composition.
Details and Top Layer Strokes
Once the base layers dry, add detail brushstrokes using the side of the brush to create shorter, sharper marks. These accents really stand out against a softer blended background, enhancing visual interest and movement.
Explore additional top-layer brushstroke styles and layering through videos on Milan Art Institute’s painting technique playlist.
Confident Accent Strokes: The Final Flourish
Jessi emphasizes “confident accent strokes”—short, strong marks in bold colors like deep Prussian blue or fluorescent pink. These inject energy, surprise, and structure into your abstract painting, giving it personality and visual focus.
She encourages painters to embrace confidence and expressiveness, knowing that mistakes are opportunities for new creations. This positive mindset is echoed by artists in The Artist’s Way, underscoring the connection between artistic growth and self-compassion.
Experimentation: Your Creative Playground
Abstract art thrives on exploration. Vary brush pressure, paint quantity, water dilution, and even switch to finger painting to discover new textures and directions. The best brushstroke comes from personal discovery and playful experimentation.
For further inspiration and hands-on learning, try online classes like Jessi’s Joyful Abstracts on Skillshare..
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What type of brush is best for abstract acrylic brushstrokes?
A wide oval wash brush with soft edges, like the Simply Simmons 1” oval wash, facilitates smooth, versatile strokes.
Q2: How do I create soft edges with brushstrokes?
Apply firm pressure on the downstroke and ease into lighter pressure on the upward motion to form wispy, painterly edges.
Q3: When should I add detailed brushstrokes?
After the base layers dry, use the side edge of your brush for sharper, shorter accent strokes to add dynamic interest.
Q4: What colors are suitable for confident accent strokes?
Bold, vibrant colors like Prussian Blue and fluorescent pink work well to highlight key areas in your abstract work.
Q5: How important is experimentation in abstract painting?
Experimentation is central—varying pressure, paint amounts, tools, and even using fingers encourages a unique artistic voice.
Q6: Where can I find guided tutorials to practice brushwork?
Try resources like EttaVee’s blog, Milan Art Institute, and Skillshare classes for structured learning.
Visible brushstrokes give abstract paintings vitality, engaging viewers with texture and flow. With these brushstroke techniques and a playful attitude, you can create bold, beautiful artwork that reflects your personal expression.