Making Waves: Why Erik Abel Inspires Young Artists

Erik Abel is a fantastic artist for middle school students to study because his vibrant, modern style is both relatable and inspiring. His bold use of colors, geometric patterns, and ocean-inspired themes appeals to young artists and provides a great starting point for exploring abstraction, color theory, and mixed media. Abel’s focus on nature and environmental advocacy encourages students to think about how art can support meaningful causes, sparking conversations about conservation and the power of creativity. His approachable style combines fine art and graphic design elements, showing students that art doesn’t have to be realistic to be impactful. By studying Abel, middle schoolers are inspired to experiment, find their unique artistic voice, and connect their work to the world around them.

Erik Abel is a contemporary artist known for his vibrant, geometric, and surf-inspired artwork. He hails from Southern Oregon and draws significant inspiration from the ocean, coastal landscapes, and natural forms. His work often reflects a harmonious blend of bold colors, clean lines, and intricate patterns, creating compositions that feel both modern and timeless.

Characteristics of Erik Abel's Art:

1. Ocean and Surf Influence: Many of his pieces are inspired by the ocean, waves, and the dynamic energy of coastal environments. His art often celebrates the beauty of nature and the fluidity of water.

2. Geometric Forms and Patterns: Abel frequently incorporates sharp geometric shapes, intricate lines, and repeating patterns that create a sense of movement and rhythm in his work.

3. Bold Color Palette: His use of vibrant, complementary colors gives his work a striking and uplifting quality.

4. Mixed Media Approach: Abel combines techniques like painting, printmaking, and digital design, often using acrylics on wood panels.

5. Environmental and Social Themes: As an artist with a passion for the natural world, Abel supports environmental and humanitarian causes. He often collaborates with organizations to raise awareness and funds for ocean conservation and social justice.

6. Abstract with a Coastal Vibe: While his work leans heavily into abstraction, it retains a strong sense of place, evoking the essence of beaches, sunsets, and the surfing lifestyle.

Erik Abel’s art appeals to those who enjoy modern designs with a strong connection to nature. His work has been showcased in galleries, public murals, and various commercial projects. As part of an assessment or exit ticket, you could write about Abel and explore how he combines fine art with graphic design elements to create a style that is both distinctive and captivating. In several of my classes, we also discuss branding and marketing art. This ties into a larger conversation about how artists can present and sell their own work, which connects to a department-wide book study we’ve done as a PK-12 visual arts community 

This has been a very successful lesson for me. I plan to post another class, so come back and check it out!

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