Abstract Painting for Beginners
Learn to paint abstract works in this practical acrylic painting course in Sydney. Over the course, you will explore the development of abstract painting through a brief history of modern art, with a focus on the movement from Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism and the gradual breakdown of figurative form.
You will examine how artists moved away from representing the visible world and began using colour, shape, gesture and composition as independent forms of expression. Through looking at artists and artworks, you will build an understanding of the ideas and approaches that underpin abstraction.
Practical exercises include colour mixing, developing individual palettes, creating colour studies, experimenting with mark-making and gesture, and transforming a chosen photograph or magazine image into an abstract composition. In the final stage, you will develop your own abstract painting on canvas and take part in a group critique.
Course Content
- Explore the development of abstraction, modern art and Abstract Expressionism.
- Experiment with colour palettes, colour relationships, mood, intensity, mark-making and expressive gesture.
- Develop an original abstract painting using composition, layering, scale, rhythm, movement and negative space.
Schedule
- Session option APFB-2: 2 March 2027 to 30 March 2027, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Session option APFB-1: 3 March 2027 to 31 March 2027, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Class location: 2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039.
Materials Options
- You may bring your own materials; the detailed materials list is to be confirmed.
- A complete materials kit may be available to purchase at checkout when enrolling.
- If purchasing a kit, allow up to one week for it to arrive from the supplier before your first class.
Details
You will learn
- Understand the modern art trajectory towards abstraction and Abstract Expressionism.
- Develop considered colour palettes, expressive mark-making and stronger abstract compositions.
- Transform a figurative image into an abstract painting with greater creative confidence.
You will get
- Guided practical exercises in colour, gesture, composition and abstraction.
- Support to develop an original abstract acrylic painting on canvas.
- Group critique to review finished works and identify strengths and possibilities.
Appropriate for
Beginners and students with some previous painting experience who want to explore abstract painting. No previous abstract painting experience is required.
Preparation
What to bring
- Your own painting materials, or purchase a materials kit when enrolling.
- A photograph or magazine image to use as a starting point for abstraction.
- Old or comfortable clothing suitable for painting; tie long hair back.
What to wear
Old or comfortable clothing suitable for painting
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
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