Learn about art through the lens of “abstract” art February through April at Ignite Studio. Abstract art breaks down art into its primary elements: line, shape, form, color, value, space, and texture. Abstract art makes no effort to capture the real world perfectly but rather conveys emotion or meaning through gestural mark making. Abstract art pieces can also serve as an investigation of the elements of art.
Explore our elemental offerings this quarter, including the second annual Fishers Make-Off Competition on Saturday, March 29. Keep an eye out for our upcoming Call for Artists for the competition. Not a competitor? Drop by on the day-of to participate in activities – full schedule coming soon.
Registration required for classes indicated with an *. Registration begins two weeks prior to class date. Visit our event calendar for more programs and to register.
Make More Abstract Art!
Abstract Art Field Trip to Newfields for Adults
Wed. Feb 26 | 11:00 – 12:30 PM | OFFSITE*
Curious about abstract art? Don’t understand it? Meet at Newfields in Indianapolis and participate in a docent-led tour to learn how to enjoy (or get a better understanding) of non-representational art. Patrons will meet in the atrium of the museum. Registration begins two weeks prior. Ages 18+.
Abstract Fabric Collage
Mon. Feb 24 | 6:00 – 7:30 PM | IGN*
Sat. March 1 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | IGN*
Learn how to collage with fused fabric. Patrons can work from a design or create their own all while learning the principles of abstract art. Patrons will take home a piece that can be displayed or made into a more functional item. Registration begins two weeks prior to class. Ages 16+.
Unbound by Limits with Teaching Artist Johnson Simon
Sat. March 8 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | IGN*
Sat. March 8 | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | IGN*
This workshop invites participants to explore abstract art as a way of conveying emotion through bold gestural mark-making. Using dynamic techniques and vibrant colors, students will learn to express themselves while discovering the power and freedom of abstract art. Registration begins two weeks prior to class. Family-friendly, suitable for ages 10 and up.
Art Lab: Abstract Exploration with Fiber
Sat. March 22 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | IGN*
Thur. April 24 | 6:00 – 7:30 PM | IGN*
In this loosely structured fiber arts lab, techniques for adding various textures to a mesh base will be presented. We will review 2D and 3D abstract art as inspiration for students to create a self-directed design. This open-ended class will focus on the exploration of materials and the process of creation rather than the completion of a finished product. Patrons may stay for as long or as little as desired during the session but must be present at the scheduled start time to participate. Registration begins two weeks prior to class. Ages 8-12 (with adult) and up.
Fishers Make-Off!
Sat. March 29 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | IGN
Showcasing the variety of wonderful, artful things a person can create in our makerspace, Ignite Studio will host its second annual Make-Off. This year’s theme is abstract art: using the building blocks of art. Make your way to Ignite for an exciting and fun day! Full schedule coming soon.
Art Lab: Repeating Patterns by Hand
Sat. March 29 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | IGN* – Part of the Fishers Make-Off!
Wed. April 9 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | IGN*
Stop by anytime during this Art Lab to learn how to turn your personal motifs into an infinitely repeating abstract pattern. Using tracing paper, pencils, tape, and scissors you too can create a design that can be used for patterned block printing, digital illustration, fabric design and more. After you craft your pattern, use our materials to color it in. Combine geometry and art in this fun activity! All materials and some instruction provided. Ages 8+.
Working with Wood Weirdly with Teaching Artist Craig Helming
Sat. April 26 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM | IGN*
Sat. April 26 | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | IGN*
Bring your curiosity of how wood works and learn techniques that will guide your making and activate your play. Understanding the basics of wood will equip you with the confidence to dive right in and create endless possibilities. With the use of diverse or repeated forms, a rhythmic sculpture will begin to take shape and ignite more ideas. Registration begins two weeks prior. Ages 16 and up.
Drop-In Activities exploring the seven elements of art to help break down abstract art will occur bi-weekly, including Three Line Landscapes, Alma Thomas Inspired Paper Mosaics, Layered Linework, Embossing on Abstract Shapes, Textural Embroidery, Fun with Form: Still Life Drawing, and Polygon Pears.
Share your abstract masterpieces with us on our Ignite Community Discussion Group on Facebook. Happy making!