Abstract art doesn't have to be "about nothing." Use these starting points to ground your work:
Paint a layer, let it dry, then use painter's tape to cover sections before painting a second layer. Peeling the tape off reveals crisp lines against messy backgrounds [3].
Mix sand, modeling paste, or even coffee grounds into your paint to add physical depth [3].
Play a song and let the tempo dictate your brushstrokes—long, flowing lines for jazz or sharp, jagged marks for rock [4].
Use a "Limited Palette" (3–4 colors) to keep the piece from looking muddy. Try complementary colors for high energy or analogous colors for harmony [1].