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How to Paint Abstracts from a Photo

By Marion Boddy-Evans, About.com

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Look at the Negative Space for an Abstract

How to Paint Abstracts

Learn how to see negative space.

Image: © 2006 Marion Boddy-Evans. Licensed to About.com, Inc.

Negative space is the space between objects or parts of an object, or around it. Focusing on the negative space is a great starting point for abstract art as it presents you with shapes.

When you look at this photo, do you see it as two flowers that have been outlined as black? Or do you see it as the blue shapes being outlined in black?

It's hard to focus on the shapes rather than the flowers, but it's a question of habit. With a little practise you can train your eye to see the negative space, the patterns and shapes this makes.

It's also easier to see without the photo...

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