Abstract Expressionism: Clouds | 2026 -Jaden Jiang

Rainbow contest!!!!!!!!

Clouds is an abstract expressionist artwork that explores life, nature, and the emotions that shape our experiences. I created this piece on the last day of May to honor Mental Health Awareness Month and to recognize the struggles that many adults and young people face every day.

Like clouds drifting through the sky, our emotions are always changing. Some moments feel bright and peaceful, while others can feel heavy and uncertain. Mental health challenges affect millions of people around the world, and many suffer in silence. Through this artwork, I wanted to create a space for reflection, hope, and understanding. Art has the power to comfort us when words are not enough. Creating and experiencing art can help reduce stress, process difficult emotions, and provide a sense of calm during challenging times. For many people, art becomes a safe outlet for expressing feelings that are difficult to explain. It reminds us that our emotions are valid and that we are not alone in what we experience.

As May ends and Pride Month begins, Clouds also celebrates diversity, acceptance, and the courage to be yourself. Just as every cloud is unique, every person carries their own story, identity, and journey. Our differences make the world more vibrant and beautiful, and everyone deserves to be seen, respected, and valued.

Art is a universal language that connects people across cultures, ages, and experiences. Through Clouds, I hope to encourage compassion, inspire conversations about mental health, and remind viewers that healing, hope, and belonging are always possible. Even when the sky is filled with storm clouds, there is still beauty above us, and there is always the chance for light to break through.

My story:

My name is Jaden, and this artwork is deeply personal to me. Since 2024, I have lived with depression and anxiety, which at times made it difficult to see hope for the future. There were periods when I struggled with overwhelming emotions and engaged in self-harming behaviors as a way of coping with the pain I was experiencing.

Over time, I began to realize that healing is not a single moment but a gradual journey. Through support, self-reflection, creative expression, and learning healthier ways to cope, I slowly found hope again. Art became one of the ways I could express feelings that were difficult to put into words. It gave me a sense of purpose, helped me process my emotions, and reminded me that difficult moments do not last forever.

Clouds represents that journey. The changing shapes and movement within the artwork symbolize how emotions can shift and transform over time. Just as storms eventually pass and clouds make way for light, I learned that recovery is possible and that hope can be found even in the darkest moments.

By sharing my story, I hope others who may be struggling with their mental health know that they are not alone. Reaching out for support, expressing yourself, and taking small steps forward can make a difference. This artwork is a celebration of resilience, healing, and the belief that every person deserves a future filled with hope.

Supplies!!!'

(optional)

1. (optional) an art easel.
2. (optional) 6 paper cups.
3. (optional) masking tape.
4. (optional) mixing pallet.
5. (optional) 250ml of water.
6. (optional) Dryer
7. (optional) reference image

(required)

1. at least 2 different sized brushes (one large one smaller)
2. colors you want (you need a LOT of arcrylic color)
3. 4b sketching pencil
4. cardboard or an pallet knife.
5. a few canvas or areas to paint on
6. Gesso primer
7. paper/rags
8. varnish(if you don't have it you will still be able to do it but it won't look as good)
9. apron
10. oils or brush cleaner. (my secret recipe)

Squeeze your chosen paint colours into a cup. Add a suitable paint medium, such as oil medium (for oil paints) or water (for water-based paints), and mix thoroughly until the paint reaches a smooth, even consistency. Ensure all ingredients are well combined before applying the paint to the canvas.

(Repeat this step for each color)

Place your canvas on a flat surface or secure it on an easel. Make sure it is stable and positioned comfortably so you can work on it with ease throughout the painting process.

Using a pencil, lightly sketch the basic shapes and outline of your chosen subject. Focus on establishing the overall composition and proportions before adding any details. Keep the lines light so they can be easily adjusted or covered with paint later.

Textured Acrylic Painting Process

1. Paint the main subject first.
2. Begin by painting the focal point of your artwork (for example, a house). Use either a reference image or your imagination, and make sure the subject contrasts well with the background so it stands out.
3. Create the sky and horizon line.
4. Use masking tape to mark off the horizon or ground line. Paint the sky using broad strokes, working from left to right and then right to left to achieve even coverage. Ensure there are no visible white gaps on the canvas.
5. Remove the tape and dry the painting.
6. Carefully peel off the masking tape and use a hair dryer or heat tool to dry the paint on both the subject and the sky.
7. Add details to the clouds.
8. Using a brush, blend additional colours into the clouds to create depth and variation.
9. Apply paint directly to the canvas.
10. Squeeze generous amounts of acrylic paint directly onto different areas of the painting. Use plenty of paint to build texture and create an expressive surface.
11. Create texture.
12. Use a piece of cardboard or a palette knife to spread and shape the paint. Leave some thick, clumped areas intact to enhance the textured effect.
13. Enhance the painting with highlights and shadows.
14. Add white, black, and grey paint to define forms, strengthen contrast, and create visual interest.
15. Introduce an accent colour.
16. Add a bold accent colour of your choice (for example, hot pink) to bring energy and personality to the painting. You can also apply gesso selectively to create additional texture and layered effects.
17. Increase contrast.
18. Use a brush to apply darker tones, such as black, to the lower areas of the painting. This helps ground the composition and increases contrast.
19. Allow the painting to dry.
20. Leave the artwork to dry completely before handling or displaying it.

Use a clean, dry brush to apply an even coat of varnish over the finished painting. Work in smooth, consistent strokes to avoid streaks or bubbles, ensuring the entire surface is covered evenly. Allow the varnish to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.