Where does one begin and end in making an abstract painting? What makes an abstract painting “good”? In this course, we will tackle these questions by using the materials ourselves, experimenting with oil-based and water-based paints, and understanding the techniques of the great masters of abstraction firsthand. Students will be introduced to a wide range of painting techniques as they move towards finding their own voices. Each week, we will begin with a group critique of the student work from the previous session, and we will continue with an analysis of an abstract painter’s approach and technique, ranging from Joan Mitchell to Hans Hoffman. Students will leave the course with an understanding of the structure and logic of abstract painting, what makes an abstract painting “hold up”, and the ability to talk about an abstract work of art. This course is open to art students and artists of all levels.