Stop Using Gesso + Make More Dynamic Abstract Art

Think you have to use gesso before painting? Think again! In this video, I’ll show you why skipping gesso when working with acrylic paint on watercolor paper can actually make your abstract art more dynamic, organic, and visually interesting.

Without gesso, the absorbent surface of watercolor paper creates spontaneous textures, unexpected blending, and natural depth that you simply can’t achieve with a prepped, sealed surface. This process-based approach invites more intuition, experimentation, and happy accidents into your work—perfect for artists looking to embrace imperfection and loosen up their creative process.

If you love mixed media art, intuitive painting, and abstract experimentation, this video is packed with creative techniques, process art tips, and mindset shifts to help you break free from rigid rules and discover new ways to bring depth and texture into your work.

🌈 Have you tried painting without gesso? Let me know in the comments!

Materials Used:
Watercolor Paper (140 lb/300 gsm) - https://amzn.to/4hlhtxs
Catalyst Wedge - https://amzn.to/4hiT9w8
Acrylic Paint - Nova Color Paints

Note: Sometimes I use affiliate links to items I use in my videos. These are all items I actually use and nothing in this video was sponsored. All opinions remain my own.

Comments, questions, and shares are always welcome and appreciated - Thank you for watching!

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