Abstract painting still carries a stubborn myth: that it is impulsive, unstructured, even skill-less. Elaine Daily-Birnbaum knows better. For her, abstraction is not the abandonment of discipline but its refinement — a practice that demands an even sharper command of composition, design, and intention. Without the anchor of a recognizable subject, every decision about shape, value, rhythm, and color must work harder to hold the viewer’s attention and stir something deeper.
Long before she began painting abstractly herself, Daily-Birnbaum was drawn to work that invited mystery rather than explanation — paintings that provoked, suggested, and lingered in the mind. In her studio today, abstraction is both liberation and risk: a balance between structure and surrender, between knowing the rules and daring to let go.
“One major misconception about abstract art is that it is simply the random, haphazard application of paint without direction or reference, and some might even say, artistic skills,” says Elaine Daily-Birnbaum. “This view is most generally held by one not educated in art.
“However, the principles of composition and design elements are even more crucial to a successful abstract painting than to a representational or realistic painting. Without a distinct subject, an abstract painting must depend solely on the successful application of these principles and elements to create an image of visual interest and intrigue. An abstract painting must overcome the brain’s natural desire to identify an object.
“Even before I ever painted abstractly, I was drawn to abstract paintings — paintings that provided me with a unique, subjective experience, paintings that provoked an emotional or psychological response, paintings that flirted with my mind. I prefer not to be told everything, but rather be allowed to experience the qualia of a painting.
“To me, suggestion can be more powerful than reality. I agree with Albert Einstein that “The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science.”
“In addition, I love the freedom of expression that abstract painting affords me. That process of exploration and discovery with paint is what I find so exciting. The outcome may or may not be satisfying, but, oh, the ride getting there.”
WHERE TO START WITH ABSTRACT PAINTING
“One typically doesn’t start out to an abstract painter; it is an evolution. Nor is abstract art, like any other visual art, part of a hierarchy. However, for those interested in abstract painting, possessing a firm grasp of compositional elements and design principles is absolutely essential. That becomes the roadmap to a successful outcome.
“Equally important, in my opinion, is understanding why one wants to paint abstractly. What about that creative process is compelling? What story or idea do you want to express?
“In addition, I would like to emphasize the mental and emotional demands of reaching deep within one’s consciousness to create a compelling image or depiction relying on shapes and color. All this, WHILE giving up some element of control and allowing the painting process to evolve. This freedom is something I struggle with, at least to some degree, in almost every one of my paintings. It is a little bit scary. But it is also the part that is the most exciting and rewarding. And did I mention CHALLENGING?”
Elaine Daily-Birnbaum is a mixed media painter. Her abstract work is deeply personal and very much process centered. She is a member of the National Watercolor Society and the American Watercolor Society.
