Exploring Emotions Through Color and Shape

Written By Kim Clark

Understand how to express emotions through color, shape, and form in abstract art.

Materials:

Canvas or paper

Acrylic or watercolor paints

Brushes of various sizes

Palette (or paper plate)

Optional: sponges, palette knives

Steps:

1. Choose an Emotion: Think of a feeling you’d like to explore—such as joy, anger, sadness, or calm.

2. Select Colors: Select colors that resonate with this emotion. For instance, bright, warm tones may evoke joy, while darker shades may evoke sadness.

3. Shape and Movement: Begin painting shapes and forms that represent your feeling. For example:

Joy may be represented by light, rounded shapes.

Anger could take on sharp, aggressive lines.

4. Layer and Texture: Add layers to emphasize your emotional theme. Experiment with different textures by using palette knives, brushes, or sponges to create depth.

5. Step Back and Reflect: Periodically step back and observe. Does the artwork convey the emotion you intended? Adjust colors or forms as needed to deepen the expression.

Reflection:

After finishing, take a moment to write a few sentences on how the colors, shapes, and textures helped express your chosen emotion. This can reinforce emotional expression and self-awareness in your art.

This lesson allows for exploration and experimentation, encouraging you to connect more deeply with the process rather than focusing on the outcome.

Kim Clark

Kim Denice Clark, raised in the sun-kissed town in California, couldn't have imagined the profound journey that art would carve out for her. Growing up just 2 1/2 miles from the beach, Clark's childhood was woven with family gatherings, beach trips, camping adventures, and endless days playing outside with friends. The scenic beauty of her surroundings filled her early years with a love for nature, imbuing her with a deep-rooted inspiration that would later bloom while living in Florida in her artistic pursuits.

It was during her the seventh grade art class, that Clark first felt the magnetic pull of art. Encouraged by her art teacher to observe and feel the texture of yellowed maple tree bark and leaves, she found herself profoundly moved by the organic beauty of the world around her. High school further cemented her passion, as evidenced by the creation of a charcoal still life—a piece she still has and cherishes today. The journey continued into college where, despite initial self-doubt of her artistic abilities, she did not waver. Her persistence and commitment saw her through instructional lessons, reading, and immersive practice. A significant milestone came as she painted and exhibited her work in Venice, Murano, and Burano Italy with the New York based Il Chiostro Art group and then enrolling at the Milan Art Institute.

Beyond her canvas, Clark enjoys indulging in photography, exploring new destinations, and frequenting the beach – passions that seamlessly interweave with her artistic endeavors. Her ultimate ambition is for every individual to own an original piece of art, reflecting her belief in the power of emotional art.

https://www.artworkarchive.com/profile/kimdeniceclark
Previous

The Power of Contrast
Next

Creating Interesting Lines