In this project, you will apply the techniques learned in the tutorial to create your own abstract art piece with a limited color palette. This project will help reinforce your skills in background creation, splatter technique, and canvas preparation.

Materials Needed:
- Canvas
- Acrylic Gesso
- Acrylic paints (choose 3-4 colors for your limited palette)
- Brushes (various sizes)
- Palette knife (optional for mixing)
- Old toothbrush or splatter brush
- Protective covering for your workspace
- Cup of water and cloth for cleaning brushes

Steps:

1. Prepare Your Canvas:
- Start by applying a layer of gesso to your canvas to smooth out the texture and ensure that the paint adheres well. Use a wide brush to apply the gesso in even strokes. Allow it to dry completely.

2. Create Your Color Palette:
- Choose 3-4 colors that you feel work well together and fit the mood you want to convey in your artwork. Consider colors that provide contrast but also harmonize when placed together.

3. Background Creation:
- Begin your painting by establishing a background. Use a large brush to apply a base color evenly across the canvas. While the base is still slightly wet, begin to add other colors, blending them softly to create depth and interest. Experiment with brushstrokes; mix short, choppy strokes with long, sweeping ones to add texture and movement.

4. Splatter Technique:
- Dip an old toothbrush or splatter brush into a contrasting paint color. With your thumb, flick the bristles so that paint splatters randomly over the canvas. You can control the size and spread of the splatters by adjusting the amount of paint and the force of your flick. Let each layer of splatter dry slightly before adding more to prevent the colors from blending too much.

5. Adding Final Details:
- Once the background and splatter layers have dried, use smaller brushes to add finer details. This could include additional color accents, shapes, or lines that enhance the abstract nature of your piece.

6. Final Review and Touch-Up:
- Step back from your work to review it from a distance. This perspective can help you see the balance and overall cohesiveness of your painting. Make any necessary adjustments or touch-ups.

Conclusion:
This project is an excellent way to put your new skills into practice and explore your personal style within the parameters of a limited color palette and abstract techniques.

Enjoy the process and let your creativity flow freely!

Mari P

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