Using pencil-shades in abstract arts ?

Question

I've seen many abstract-art-works by great painters in different sites. These are all done with either acrylics or oil-paints. Is it always

necessary to use paints in abstract-arts ? Can't it be done with only pencil-shades ? Like if I want to incorporate some geometric figures

in it using pencil-sketch etc.

Answer 1

There is no problem with the use of pencil as a medium. The problem that might arise is in the size of the work you wish to create. Pencil is a slow way of conveying colour, texture, tone,etc. in a work. If you wish to work large scale you may need to use graphite blocks rather than pencils. Small scale works in a variety of pencil grades can produce some very exciting results. I would not see your choice of medium as a limitation in producing abstract compositions, you need only to ensure that you work at a scale that allows you to fully exploit the characteristics of the medium.

Answer 2

Any medium may be used for abstract pictures. Paul Klee sometimes drew abstract sketches with graphite or charcoal. I believe Dan Flavin tended to use pens and pencils when sketching out abstract ideas for his light installations. These pieces, however, did tend to be on a smaller scale. I guess you'd need a lot of patience to fill a larger piece.

I've made some abstractions with pencils but I've tended to use turpentine on the marks as well as it gives a nice effect. Also pastels are rather good for abstracts too.

Answer 3

This is dumber than copying off of your fellow student's paper in class . . . at least there you know WHO your fellow student is. How do you know that HERE you won't get all the wrong answers on purpose? You could use Google and find all these answers in less than 30 minutes . . . and actually have a good chance of a decent grade. . . .

Answer 4

Of course...but the going may be slow. See MC Escher's work.