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Abstract expressionism is an art movement that emphasizes the process of creation over the final product. Abstract expressionist artists often focus on the act of painting as a way of exploring their inner thoughts and emotions. The act of painting becomes a form of self-expression and a way to release their innermost thoughts and feelings. In this article, I will explore the process of how an abstract expressionist artist, such as myself prepares to paint.

Mental preparation
I begin by preparing my mind. This involves quieting my thoughts and focusing my mind on the task at hand. I might meditate, do yoga, or engage in other forms of mindfulness practice to help myself clear my mind and get into the right state of mind.

Gathering materials
Next, I gather the materials I'll need to paint. This may include paints, brushes, canvas, and any other materials I use to create my art. I take the time to choose the right colors and textures that will help me convey the emotions they want to express.

Choosing a subject
Abstract expressionist artists don’t typically work from a set subject or reference, but instead focus on their emotional state. We may choose to paint an emotion we are feeling or use the act of painting to explore my inner thoughts.

Setting up the workspace
Once I've gathered materials and chosen a subject, I set up my workspace. This may involve laying out my canvas, setting up my paints and brushes, and making sure I have plenty of space to move and work.

Getting into the flow
With my mind and workspace prepared, I begin to paint. I start with broad strokes, using my brush to create large shapes and forms. Then I begin to add smaller details and refine my work, exploring the colors, textures, and shapes that are most meaningful to me.

Allowing the painting to evolve
As I work, I allow the painting to evolve organically. I don't necessarily have a set plan, but instead let the painting guide me, responding to the colors, shapes, and emotions that emerge as I work.

Reflecting on the process
After I've finished painting, I reflect on the process. I may step back from the canvas and examine my work, thinking about what emotions I want to express and whether I feel like I've succeeded in doing so.

Revising the work
If I feel my painting is not quite right, I may choose to revise it. At this point I may add or remove elements, change colors, or make other changes to help the painting better express the emotions I want to convey.

In conclusion, abstract expressionist artists prepare to paint by first preparing our minds, gathering materials, choosing a subject, setting up our workspace, and getting into the flow. We then allow the painting to evolve organically and reflect on the process after we have finished. If necessary, we may revise our work to better express our emotions. The act of painting becomes a form of self-expression and a way to explore our innermost thoughts and feelings.

In abstract expressionism, the process of creating the art is just as important as the final product. By focusing on the act of painting, I am able to connect with my inner thoughts and emotions and explore them through the medium of art. The process of painting becomes a form of self-discovery and a way to express my innermost thoughts and feelings.

Painting by Shawn Vernon http://www.shawnvernon.com