Abstraction for Absolute Beginners

Abstraction for Absolute Beginners

Cost: $470.00

6 in-person sessions

Tuesdays, June 9–July 14, 2026

6:30 pm–9:30 pm

Location: 41 Cooper Sq.

REGISTER ONLINE 

You might have seen abstract artworks and wondered if you can make some of your own, this is your opportunity to learn the basics and make some finished pieces! This six-class course on abstraction in the visual arts, presents how images and ideas can be transformed into geometric shapes of many kinds. Through combining exercises in drawing, painting and collage with basic art history, students will explore representational and pure abstraction, creating original compositions and replicas of simple historical artworks.

No previous experience necessary and all levels are welcome. Students will learn to design and refine their aesthetic interests. The course emphasizes creative exploration through structured guidance, culminating in a final project that incorporates the skills and concepts learned. Whether you are new to abstraction or looking to deepen your practice, this course offers development of discovery, creativity and appreciation.

Materials

  • Pencil and Pen
  • Vinyl eraser
  • Ruler (12 inches or 30 cm)
  • Compass
  • Mixed media sketchbook (9”x12” or larger)
  • Scissors
  • Basic acrylic painting set (at least with primary colors, black and white; matte is best)
  • Basic painting brushes (recommended set)
  • Artist tape (recommended tape)
  • Economy canvas pads of preferred size (recommended canvas pad)
  • Palette (an old plastic plate or disposable plates will work), (recommended palette papers)
  • Cup for water
  • Collage material (will explain in the first class)

Optional Art Materials

  • Colored pencils for adding color accents and controlled coloring.
  • Illustration markers to outline and color is a more graphic way. (Prismacolor and Blick brands are recommended but any can work) 
  • Mixed media of your choice to incorporate onto your art. 

 

Lesson Plan

Session 1

Introduction to Abstraction: Foundations of abstract art and the artistic process.

Session 2 

Pure Abstraction: Non-representational abstraction rooted in shape, form, color, and spatial relationships.

Session 3 

Representational Abstraction: Abstracting from life–simplifying forms while retaining essence.

Session 4

Plural Abstraction: Mixed Media and Styles. Embracing pluralism, experimentation, and materiality

Session 5 

Guided Project: Brainstorming, Planning, and Studies. From intention to composition and planning an original work.

Session 6

Guided Project Completion and Review: Final project execution, critique, and reflection.

Course Code: A4AB

Instructor(s): Carlos Martinez Ramos

  • Founded by inventor, industrialist and philanthropist Peter Cooper in 1859, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art offers education in art, architecture and engineering, as well as courses in the humanities and social sciences.

  • “My feelings, my desires, my hopes, embrace humanity throughout the world,” Peter Cooper proclaimed in a speech in 1853. He looked forward to a time when, “knowledge shall cover the earth as waters cover the great deep.”

  • From its beginnings, Cooper Union was a unique institution, dedicated to founder Peter Cooper's proposition that education is the key not only to personal prosperity but to civic virtue and harmony.

  • Peter Cooper wanted his graduates to acquire the technical mastery and entrepreneurial skills, enrich their intellects and spark their creativity, and develop a sense of social justice that would translate into action.