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Overlapping shapes

Abstract Art

Overlapping in art is the placement of objects over one another in order to create the illusion of depth.

What is the definition of overlapping in Art?

It is necessary for artists to provide viewers with some sort of perspective in establishing size and distance in paintings. This is where overlapping comes into play.

Overlapping was an aspect of works of an art form that emerged just before the middle of the 20th century called abstract expressionism. Many abstract expressionist paintings are simply a series of overlapping lines or shapes.

WHY WE OVERLAP

Robert and Sonia Delaunay, French abstract artists. We looked at several of the couple's art and have a hard time telling the difference between their works because they are so similar.

THE DELAUNAYS

Robert Delaunay’s art

Robert’s art

Sonia’s art

Student art inspired by the Delaunays

Student art using overlapping circles

Student work

He was an influential Russian painter and art theorist. He is credited with painting the first purely abstract works. Born in Moscow, Kandinsky spent his childhood in Odessa. He enrolled at the University of Moscow, studying law and economics. Successful in his profession—he was offered a professorship (chair of Roman Law) at the University of Dorpat—he began painting studies (life-drawing, sketching and anatomy) at the age of 30.He later became famous for his colorful abstract art.

WASSILY KANDINSKY

Kandinsky’s art

Begin by drawing overlapping shapes all over your paper using pencil. You can use any geometric shapes.

Outline all pencil marks with black marker.

Everywhere a shape overlaps another…use a different color. Color with markers or color really dark with crayons.

The Agenda