Discover the Best Abstract Painting Classes in NYC
Rather than trying to paint recognizable figures or images, Abstract painters use abstract elements such as lines, colors, shapes, and textures in their work. They try to create a visual experience that is independent of reality, and believe that each viewer will have a different experience and interpretation, depending on their own unique perspectives and experiences. Many Abstract painters do not explain their own work, instead leaving interpretation up to their audiences.
Abstract painting is believed to have started in the early twentieth century, with German artist Wassily Kandinsky. The development of this style was a turning point in art history, because artists started to focus on expression in addition to representation. Abstract painting has continued to evolve since then. It has become a popular form of artistic expression, and has played an important role in the development of modern art.
Why You Should Learn Abstract Painting in NYC
Learning abstract painting can be rewarding in many different ways. Some students enjoy the unique way that this type of art lets them explore their emotions and ideas. Others find painting to be a meditative process that relieves stress and helps with relaxation. For some people, abstract painting can be a good way to connect with their emotions or work through difficult life experiences.
In addition to being personally rewarding and therapeutic, learning abstract painting can also be rewarding in the way that students need to master new skills and learn to think about things in a different way. While abstract painting might appear to be spontaneous and chaotic, this type of art actually requires skill and practice. For instance, artists need to learn brush techniques, and how to mix colors and layer them. Many new Abstract painters also need to learn to think about art in a different way–as something independent from external reality–and that can be challenging.
In-Person Abstract Painting Classes & Schools in NYC
New York City is known for its diverse art scene. and is home to many abstract painters. Students will find a variety of in-person abstract painting classes there. For example, the Brooklyn-based Creatively Wild Art Studio offers a two-hour class called Abstract Art Journey: Paint How U Feel. This class is intended to help individuals unlock their creative potential as they learn about abstract painting techniques. Students learn a variety of different brush techniques, explore the principles of color, and learn about space, shape, and value. The Creatively Wild Art Studio is dedicated to encouraging individual expressions and nourishing creativity. It offers a variety of different art classes, both in person and online. This class costs $80, which includes paint and brushes. Students need to supply their own canvas.
Another in-person option in the New York City area is Adult Focus on Painting. This class covers a number of different master oil painting techniques including underpainting, glazing, palette knife painting, action painting, and chiaroscuro. Students receive in-depth demonstrations and one-on-one instruction, and can work in an abstract style, or another style of their choice. Tuition is $235, and there are four sessions. The One River School is an art school that began in 2012, and has its own unique teaching method. It has campuses in a number of different cities, including in Englewood, New Jersey, which is about 15 miles from New York City.
Oil Painting I: Beginner Steps for Adults is another abstract painting class in New York City. It runs for two hours, and costs $80. In this class, students learn to paint in an abstract style–or they can use realism if they prefer–and work with oil paints. Students can bring in their own still life object, picture, or photo to work from. Oils and brushes are supplies, but students need to bring a canvas. The class takes place at the Creatively Wild Art Studio, which is in Brooklyn, a short drive from downtown New York City. Creatively Wild is a female-owned studio that welcomes artists of all ages and levels of experience. It has been operating since 2009, and aims to nurture creativity and create a welcoming place for artists to work.
Creatively Wild also offers a class called Adult Paint + Sip: Oil Painting II, which is for students who have completed a beginner oil painting class. Students in this class can also bring in their own subject matter to work from, and can paint in an abstract style, or another style of their choosing. They should bring their own canvas, and any speciality supplies, like pouring mediums, that they want to use. The class covers choosing the correct color palette, using tools to add depth and clarity, using a variety of different brushstrokes, choosing the right style, and creating values, gradients, and transitions. One class session costs $80, but more than one session is suggested so that students have time to finish a piece of work.
In Learning Art Through Creating Art, students of all levels can learn whatever style they want from artist and instructor Raphael-Raúl. Raphael-Raúl talks about art history and the philosophy of art in addition to helping students improve in their chosen style. He also provides feedback notes on a separate piece of paper that students can take home and use for further study. This class takes place at the Chelsea Drawing & Painting Workshop, in the Chelsea art district in New York. It costs $210 for three sessions.
Virtual Abstract Painting Classes & Schools
Virtual abstract painting classes are another popular learning option. Virtual instruction takes place live and in real time, just like with an in-person class, however, students don’t need to commute to a classroom, and are not limited to options in the same city as them. Many people like virtual learning because it is more flexible than in-person learning.
Students who want to learn abstract painting might enjoy Color & Saturation: Watercoloring Still Lifes, a virtual class offered by the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The main focus of the class is creating a loose impression of a group of flowers and leaves, and combining it with more detailed elements. In the process, students learn about tonal intensity and color combinations. Students need to provide their own materials, including paints and paper. A detailed supply list is available online. This three-hour class costs $59.
Located near San Francisco, the Richmond Art Center is a community organization that encourages people to make and share art of all different types. It offers a variety of virtual art classes, including Abstract Painting, which runs for four sessions, and costs $120. Students in this class should already have some experience with abstract painting. They can use whatever materials they are comfortable with for the class. Sessions run via Zoom, and there is an average class size of 12 people.
Aspiring abstract painters might also be interested in Online Painting with Acrylics 301, which is offered virtually through Pastimes for a Lifetime. In this class, instructor and company founder Linda Wehrli covers a number of different painting styles, including abstract painting, over the course of four sessions. She also teaches students how to prepare a canvas and how to mix colors. Tuition is $160, and a supply list is provided online.
Private Group Abstract Painting Classes in NYC
A painting class can be the perfect way to entertain a group of people, with its combination of creativity and hands-on participation. CourseHorse offers a number of different private group abstract painting classes, both in-person in New York City, and online. It makes the booking process easy, with no booking fees and no registration, and provides a confirmation within 24 hours. It also allows you to make changes to your group size up to 72 hours before the event.
Color Workshop–Ink Dripping Art is a popular group class that takes place on the Lower East Side in New York City. Participants in this class create artwork by selectively dripping alcohol-based inks onto yupo paper. As the ink dries, it creates unique and colorful designs. This class runs for two hours and can accommodate up to 20 people. It costs $65 per person. Materials are provided, and every guest goes home with their own artwork.
