Weekly BobBlast Issue 559
Small Scale Abstract Painting on Paper
Welcome Back to Another BobBlast!
This BobBlast is all about how to create more meaningful abstract paintings in a small scale format on paper. Not exactly a miniature, but artwork created for small spaces, based on graphic design, color and a strong concept. I have called these small studies, sketches and paintings my “little gems” since 1996.
That said, sometimes my small works are warmups for larger paintings. I challenge myself to create the smaller format with the same freedom and looseness as my larger paintings. It is too easy to look at a small surface and start painting too tight - and too small!
I have found there are many ways to keep my "loose focus" while working small. I make sure I have watercolor paper, torn and gessoed to the size I want—ready to go, before I start. My surface choice for small paintings is 300 lb cold press— either Cheap Joe’s Kilimanjaro or Fabriano Artistico watercolor paper.
When I am planning to work on small pieces, I consider if they will be…
•Stand alone artworks?
•Part of related artworks - such as a series that hangs together?
•Microcosm of something larger - like a section taken out of a larger painting?
Then I Consider the 5 Cs:
•Concept
•Composition
•Color Combination
•Commit to the Series
•Continue the Series
Sometimes I will utilize the entire paper’s surface for the painting. Other times, I tape a four-sided border on small watercolor paper to create a "mock mat" border. The type of tape I am using is FrogTape - yellow for sensitive surfaces. I use this "masking the borders" technique for graphic impact.
I have always liked the look of clean, sharp border edges. Using this technique of taping gives the appearance of a Monotype print - without using a printing press!
I paint inside the lines, so to speak—then finally… slowly peel back the tape, revealing a pretty cool, instantaneous presentation of my most immediate, current piece with a pristine white border. Watch the video for my step-by-step!
If you peel the tape off too fast, you may not get a clean, crisp edge plus you may tear the top layer of the paper surface.
There is a lot to consider! But, no matter what size you are working on… never limit your creativity!
Join us for a Small Abstract Workshop Online!
•May 12-14, 2025
Small Scale Abstracts - ONLINE WORKSHOP
Sponsored by Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff
Contact Edwina May, Workshop Coordinator (800) 227-2788
https://cheapjoes.com/products/robert-burridge-online-art-workshop-small-scale-abstracts-may-12-14-2025
The Next In-Person Workshop in Bob's Studio
Larger & Looser Abstract Painting
•March 28-30, 2025
3-Day Instructional Studio Workshop
Robert Burridge Studio, Arroyo Grande, CA
Contact [email protected] for fees and details.
https://robertburridge.com/burridge-studio-workshops/#3-day
More Upcoming Online Workshops
•April 22, 2025
Neutrals—How to Create and Use!
https://robertburridge.com/zoomin-with-bob-april-22-2025/
•May 3-4, 2025
Non-Objective Mixed Media
https://robertburridge.com/zoomin-with-bob-may-3-4-2025/
Upcoming Online Demos
•April 17, 2025
Gluing a Watercolor Paper Painting onto a Wood Panel
•May 8, 2025
Painting a Wine Bottle with 3 Strokes
https://robertburridge.com/monthly-demonstrations/
Come Paint with Bob in his Studio in Arroyo Grande, CA
Schedule Your 2025 Mentor Workshop Today!
•August 7-10, 2025
•September 25-28, 2025
•Nov 6-9, 2025
https://robertburridge.com/burridge-studio-workshops/
Traveling Bob – In-Person Workshops!
•May 19-23 2025
Abstract Painting & Collage Retreat & Gallery Show at GOH
Gallery of Hermosa, Hermosa Beach, CA
Contact (323) 364-6606 or [email protected]
https://galleryofhermosa.com/collections/workshop-and-art-show
It was so successful last time, we just had to do it again!
Two In-Person Workshops at DILLMAN'S
•June 9-11, 2025
Creative Abstract Techniques
https://www.dillmans.com/workshops/non-objective-mixed-media-painting/
•June 13-14, 2025
Loose Florals & Landscapes
https://www.dillmans.com/workshops/abstract-flowers-and-landscapes-2/
Dillman’s Art Workshop Retreat, Lac du Flambeau, WI
Contact (715) 588-3143 or [email protected]
Burridge Online Coaching
• Private one-on-one
Critiques • Coaching • Comments • Strategies
https://robertburridge.com/burridge-online-coaching/