Anabel Hopkins

Like most Abstract artists, I came to this technique later in my career after having learned the basic rules of form, composition, values, color and technique.  My style is Abstract Expressionist- Non-Objective which is challenging because it consists purely of composition, color, values and texture, absent a subject to base the painting on. Wassily Kandinsky, often considered the first abstract artist, said “Of all the arts, abstract painting is the most difficult. It demands that you know how to draw well, that you have a heightened sensitivity for composition and for colors, and that you be a true poet.  This last is essential.”

Abstract Expressionism was often called “Action painting” due to its physicality.  It is very freeing to stroke on molding paste with broad strokes of a large palette knife, swipe an oversized brush through a canvas, glue on sand, pumice, and other elements for built-up structure.  I may use a rag to dab on color contrasts or eventually lay the painting on the floor and drip on thin streams of paint in a determined pattern.  My paintings require multiple layers of ground (gesso or undercoats), structural elements, paint and often a final coat of gloss or varnish.  My compositions may be inspired by a shadow on the wall, a Chinese calligraphy character, or nothing at all.  I often begin with a general idea and let the painting determine its own design.  I commonly alter colors and form as I progress.  The composition should work from any angle and I may turn it upside down or sideways before determining its final orientation.  As an interior design fan, I enjoy creating a large piece that can serve as a room’s focal point. 

Abstract work forces the viewer to create their own reality – each sees something different, making the painting their personal discovery.  Viewers of abstracts can’t always say why they like a particular work – they just know they do and, in the end, that’s what counts, isn’t it?

Anabel creates unique pendants, earrings and bookmarks from fluid acrylic paint in conjunction with her paintings. Each piece is original, actually a miniature painting. They are housed in metal alloy bezels, with glass cabachons. Pendants have brass or silver-plated chains in 18”, 24” and 30” lengths. Items are priced from $ 8.50 to $ 25 each, discounts for multiple pieces. They will be available at Hoosier Artist Gallery but also always from Anabel directly.