When I first stepped into the world of abstract art, I imagined freedom—colour, movement, and emotion all flowing together on canvas. And that is part of it. But what I didn’t expect was everything else: the doubt, the trial-and-error, the unexpected breakthroughs, and the deep personal growth that comes with putting your soul into your work.
If you’re just starting out—or even if you’ve been at it for a while—here are five things I wish someone had told me when I began my journey as an abstract artist.
1. Play and having fun is vital
I used to believe I needed a defined style, a clear message, or some kind of artistic “identity” before I could take myself seriously as an artist. But the truth is, your style doesn’t arrive fully formed—it evolves as you create. This is why i believe it’s vital to make sure as an artist you are playing and having fun with brush strokes, paint choices etc.
You find your style in the mess. In the experiments. In the pieces that feel like failures at first but later teach you something important.
Don’t wait for clarity before you start—create your way into it by having fun and playing.
2. Not Everyone Will Understand Your Work—and That’s Okay
Abstract art is emotional, intuitive, and often open-ended. That can be uncomfortable for some people because they want to know answers and understand art. You’ll get questions like, “But what is it supposed to be?” or comments that miss the point entirely.
It used to shake my confidence. But now, I see it differently: art is not made to be understood by everyone. It’s made to connect—to stir something, even if that something is confusion. The more I stay true to my vision, the more the right people started to connect with it.
3. The Materials You Use Matter More Than You Think
When I first started, I bought the cheapest paints and brushes I could find ( yes bunnings sample pots were the main paint i used). I figured it didn’t matter—it was all “abstract” anyway, right?
Wrong.
While you don’t need to spend a fortune, using quality materials makes a huge difference. Paint behaves better, colors are richer, and the process just feels better. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about respecting your work enough to give it the right tools.
4. Creative Blocks Are Part of the Process
Some days, the ideas won’t come. You’ll stare at a blank canvas, second-guess every brushstroke, or feel like nothing is working. That’s normal. It doesn’t mean you’re not creative—it means you’re human.
When I feel blocked and uninspired i focus on play and I walk away, flip through old sketchbooks, or start something totally different—something messy, small, or just for fun. Inspiration usually sneaks back in when I stop chasing it.
5. Sharing Your Work Is Just as Brave as Creating It
Putting your art out there—on social media, in galleries, or even just showing a friend—can feel terrifying. Abstract work is often deeply personal. It’s a piece of your inner world on display.
But I’ve learned that sharing is part of the process, too. Each time I show a piece, I open the door to connection. And often, the moments that felt most vulnerable ended up being the most meaningful—for me and for others.
If you’re just beginning your journey into abstract art you don’t need to have all the answers. You just need curiosity, courage, and a willingness to keep showing up.
There’s no single path, no perfect technique, and no one “right” way to make abstract art. That’s the beauty of it.
So give yourself permission to explore, to mess up, to find joy in the unknown. Your voice is already there—keep painting until you hear it.
If you’re on your own creative path, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment, send a message, or connect with me on [Instagram / your preferred platform]. Let’s grow together.