Despite the popularity of abstract paintings in the art world, painters don't always know how to connect emotionally with this work. Using a range of projects and exercises, artist Laura Reiter shows how to be adventurous with materials and styles, mixing media to create that expressive connection. She examines the creative process, including themes, composition, and making the most out of a sketchbook. The techniques are designed to build skills and raise awareness of how abstraction can deliver works bursting with texture, detail, and color."