Exploring Abstract Shapes and Colours: Stairway to Space - Work in Progress

Charlotte Wensley
Aug 27, 2022
3 min read

Updated: 13 hours ago

I wanted to share a little adventure I had exploring abstract shapes and colours with some sketching recently. You know how sometimes you just need a break from all the big projects? That’s exactly what this time-out sketch was for me—just pure fun and creativity!

I love how shapes just kind of appear on the canvas when you let yourself go with the flow.

It’s like having a little chat with the artwork, and honestly, it’s super fulfilling.

So, I decided to reach for some Mars Black, which I haven't used in ages. It’s such a rich, deep colour, and I realized I’ve never really played with it in my bigger pieces before.

| Exploring Abstract Shapes and Colours

As I started painting, I was blown away by how amazing it looks with magenta!

Vibrant pink has a special place in my heart, and the way it pops against the black is just mesmerizing. It creates this cool tension that makes you want to keep looking. I’m definitely thinking about diving deeper into this colour combo for my future works.

As I kept playing around with these colours, I found myself really interested in the idea of 'space' in my art.

| Seeking Visual Space

It’s funny how this concept can mean so many different things—like the vastness of the universe, the cozy little nooks we love, or even those emotional journeys we all go through.

Each abstract art painting feels like a step closer to figuring out how to express complex themes about the emotional journey. In my sketches, exploring space isn’t just about the distances on the canvas. It’s also about how abstract shapes and colours interact.

The way light and dark play off each other, how different hues sit together, and the balance between filled and empty spaces all come together to create a sense of depth and movement.

I’m always amazed at how these elements can stir up emotions.

Looking ahead, I’m really excited about where this journey will take me! Every time I grab my brush, I remind myself to just enjoy the process, make mistakes, and learn along the way.

This sketching practice not only sparks my creativity but also helps me dig deeper into the themes that resonate with me. I can’t wait to explore the relationship between Mars Black and magenta more and see how they can help me convey the big idea of space in my future artworks.

Can’t wait to share more with you all, but for now here's a video or the original abstract art piece coming together in my sketchbook.