Book excerpt: As the interest in non-representational art grows and artists become more adventurous, this important book helps the reader make the move towards abstract art through the use of colour – the hallmark of Claire Harrigan's work in mixed media. Fantastically illustrated throughout and with sound technical advice, the book includes stunning finished pieces and step-by-step demonstrations. The book covers: How to Make the move towards abstract art and semi-abstract art; How to use colour to shape your abstract art; Analysis and selection for abstract art with guidance on simplification, distortion and exaggeration; How to emphasize elements such as line and shape as well as colour; The application of abstraction to a range of subject areas, including still life, flowers, buildings, figures and landscape, and how they evolved from the original inspiration; Choosing and working with different media – acrylic, gouache, watercolour, oil, pastel and collage – and how to combine media. Hardback edition 9780713490558.