This is a new title in Collins' recently relaunched best-selling Learn to Paint series, providing a clear and simple introduction to an exciting style of painting that is attracting more and more interest among amateur artists.

Many leisure painters are interested in painting simple abstracts but are not sure quite how to approach this way of working. In this book Laura Reiter provides a clear and accessible introduction to this contemporary style of painting, explaining in simple, straightforward terms what abstract art is and how various techniques can be used to paint popular subjects in a less representational way.

Early sections look at mark-making techniques, aspects of design and composition, and methods for creating texture and using collage. Laura then explains several simple ways of approaching an abstract painting, using watercolour, acrylics, pastels and collage:

* abstracting from simple doodles
* developing natural forms in an abstract way
* altering shapes
* creating stylized images
* using sections of a drawing
* responding to different emotions

Practical exercises, useful tips and several step-by-step demonstrations are included and the book is illustrated with Laura's very colourful and exciting abstract paintings.