Tutorial: Abstract Geometric Wall Art

This weekend I hosted an art party (more on that later), but the inspiration for the supplies and basic direction of the party came from a few pins I had come across on Pinterest. One of those inspiring pieces is here and the other is to a dead link but I'll post the picture below. 

Although she does a great job of explaining the process (and includes a good step about gesso-ing the edges of the tape for a cleaner line, especially with wilder or younger painters), I wanted to show how I tackled the exercise. This project is great for beginners and creates an interesting piece without needing to grab the rulers and be too careful with your paint along the straight edges - all by using painter's tape!

• Canvas (12in x 12in or larger)
• Paint and Paint Tray
• Brushes or Sponge Brushes
• Water
• Towels
• Painter's Tape (I used both the 1 and 3/4 inch width tape)
• Scissors (optional)

Place the tape on the canvas, remember as this is a "resist" wherever the tape is will remain the color of the canvas, in this case, under the tape will remain white. Press the tape down firmly on the canvas, especially if you are going around the corners. Small pieces of tape are not recommended as they are easier to lift while you are applying the paint with the brush.

Paint in the sections however you feel. I wanted each section to be different for this sample, but you can easily play with the color across all the tape lines and then when they are peeled off the sections will be created. Keep water out of your paint as that will weaken the seal of the tape on the canvas. Also, be mindful of how you are pushing the brush across the tape - scrubbing motions should be avoided especially near the edge of the tape. 

After each section was filled, I decided to add details and interest with lines. You could add any sort of dots or designs to layer the piece.

Once everything has dried, pull off the tape and see your tape resist at work. If there are any mishaps of paint into your tape resist lines (I had a couple) wait until it's fully dry and apply white paint over top. Don't be afraid of the white space. It was a little uncomfortable for me to have "unpainted" canvas in my finished piece, but that is part of this method's charm! Embrace the white! 

Finished piece at the art party table, ready to inspire others to create!

Below is the image from the pin/dead link. When you try this method be sure and let me know! I would love to see other examples, or hear your tips/tweaks!