Abstract Realism: Paint Soul-Stirring Portraits with Bold Expression

Discover the Freedom of Abstract Realism

Do you yearn to create portraits that explode with bold expression and vibrant energy, yet maintain a connection to realistic form? In Abstract Realism, award-winning artist Leonie will guide you through innovative techniques inspired by the dynamic approach of abstract realism. Learn to break free from rigid techniques, infuse your portraits with emotion and movement, and discover the joy of painting portraits that are both alive and technically sound. Enroll now and begin your journey to expressive portraiture!

Tired of Stiff Portraits?

Discover the Freedom of Abstract Realism

Do you ever stand at your canvas, brush in hand, feeling an urge to create something boldly expressive, yet find yourself held back by the need for realistic structure? Like many artists, you might yearn to break free and transform your portraits from flat and lifeless into something filled with meaning, depth, and soul-stirring expression. This course offers that breakthrough.
Vibrant abstract portrait painting of a person with round glasses and bright yellow-pink hair, created in an expressive style with bold brushstrokes and a colorful palette. Artwork by a LifeArt School student during an Abstract Realism painting course.

What Makes This Course Unique?

Beyond Just Splashing Paint

Have you been searching for a way to master contemporary portrait painting without feeling confined by traditional methods? Our Abstract Realism course offers a fresh perspective, drawing inspiration from the "controlled chaos" of abstract expression while maintaining a connection to recognizable form. Leonie will guide you through a unique method for painting shape-oriented portraits using a photograph as a reference, ensuring your expressive marks are intentional and impactful, not just random abstraction.

What You Can Expect To Learn

Paint with Confidence and Emotion

  • How to Paint a Bold, Expressive Portrait with Abstract Realism

    Learn step-by-step techniques to create portraits that are alive with emotion and mystery, utilising methods developed through years of blending abstract expression and realistic portraiture.

  • Loosen Up Your Brushstrokes and Add Depth

    Discover how to break free from rigid techniques, loosen your brushwork, and infuse your portraits with dynamic movement and captivating depth.

  • Seamlessly Integrate Subject and Background

    Master the art of building an abstract foundation layered with color, texture, and depth, then seamlessly integrate your subject for a cohesive and visually stunning look.

  • Create a Painting Source from Your Abstract Background

    Learn how to utilise the abstract underpainting as a springboard for developing the representational elements of your portrait.

  • Develop Your Unique Artistic Voice

    Through experimentation and guided exercises, discover how to express yourself freely and confidently, going beyond limitations to unlock your authentic artistic style.

  • Let Go of Perfectionism and Rediscover Joy

    Embrace the process of "controlled chaos" and rediscover the joy of painting by releasing the pressure of achieving perfect realism.

Ready to Transform Your Portraits?

Embrace the Power of Abstract Realism

The world is waiting to see your unique interpretation of portraiture. Take your time to fully absorb the wealth of advice, practical exercises, and demonstrations throughout this course. We recommend dedicating around 3-4 days to engage with the comprehensive content, delivered through engaging segments that allow you to learn at your own pace. You will have access to this course for 1 year, allowing ample time for practice and revisiting lessons.
Vibrant abstract portrait painting of a Jimmy Hendrix, in bold , bright, blues, yellow's and pinks, created in an expressive style with bold brushstrokes and a colorful palette. Artwork by a LifeArt School student during an Abstract Realism painting course.

Flexible Learning and Community Support

Permanent Access Included

You'll have access to all videos and resources for a full year, providing the flexibility to revisit any section at any time. This extended access ensures you can thoroughly understand the techniques and practice at your own pace. Additionally, you'll connect with a vibrant community of fellow artists, sharing work, receiving feedback, and finding inspiration.
Vibrant abstract portrait painting of a Einstein, in bold , bright, blues, yellow's and pinks, created in an expressive style with bold brushstrokes and a colorful palette. Artwork by a LifeArt School student during an Abstract Realism painting course.

Comprehensive Curriculum

From Foundation to Expressive Finish

Our course covers everything from recommended supplies to mastering advanced abstract realism techniques. With Leonie's step-by-step guidance, you'll learn how to create stunning modern portraits that capture the essence of your subject with bold color and expressive mark-making. Whether you're looking to loosen up your existing portrait skills or explore a new artistic direction, this course is designed to help you achieve your expressive goals.
Vibrant abstract portrait painting of a Charles Bronson, actor, in bold , bright, blues, yellow's and pinks, created in an expressive style with bold brushstrokes and a colorful palette. Artwork by a LifeArt School student during an Abstract Realism painting course.

ARE YOU READY TO PAINT WITH BOLD EXPRESSION?

Unlock Your Expressive Potential: Start Painting Abstract Realism Today!

Course curriculum

    1. A MESSAGE FROM THE INSTRUCTOR

      FREE PREVIEW
    2. NEXT STEPS

    3. BEFORE YOU GO...

    1. START WITH ONE COLOUR

    2. FACIAL PROPORTIONS - So, You have never drawn a face before...no problem. Here is some basics to help you...

    3. PRACTICAL APPLICATION - Keep it loose and Messy

    4. HOW ARE YOU DOING SO FAR - Need help?

    1. WORKING WITH THE LIGHT

    1. WORKING WITH THE MIDTONES

    2. WORKING WITH THE MIDTONES - Practical Application

    1. PUT THE WORLD ON ITS HEAD!

    2. HOW ARE YOU DOING SO FAR - Need help?

    3. PUT THE WORLD ON ITS HEAD - Practical Application

    4. ADDING MORE DETAIL - Practical Application

    5. ADDING MORE DETAIL - Check Your Detail

    6. ADDING MORE DETAIL - Working with Thicker Paint

About this course

  • $120.00
  • 24 lessons
  • 3.5 hours of video content

Learn from Award-Winning Artist & Teacher
Leonie.e.Brown

Real Art Taught by a Real Artist, Teaching Real People,
in a Real Art Class, Now Also Available Exclusively to You!

Thank You

Igniting Artistic Voices: Testimonials from Lifeart Academy's Thriving Community

Discover how Lifeart Academy has empowered artists worldwide to unlock their authentic creative expression.

REVIEWS

5 star rating

Amazing!

Verna Lawrence

Was about to quit my art journey because I hated tracing images to paint. Signed up for the course because I had nothing to lose - great decision! I made my ...

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Was about to quit my art journey because I hated tracing images to paint. Signed up for the course because I had nothing to lose - great decision! I made my first ever painting without a drawing and loved every minute of it. There is no better value out there for portrait painting, and certainly no better instruction. If you’re not sure about signing up I suggest you go for it and prepare to be amazed by doing what you never thought you could do until you prove that with the right approach and instruction, you too can be a great artist!

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5 star rating

Love it

Deanna Gross

I've followed Leonie on youtube for years. Have always loved her videos. Happy she's finally made longer ones that describe exactly how it's done. And, sh...

Read More

I've followed Leonie on youtube for years. Have always loved her videos. Happy she's finally made longer ones that describe exactly how it's done. And, she makes MISTAKES purposely to show there should be no fear.

Read Less

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