How to Do Celtic Art
Celtic art originated thousands of years ago with the designs of the Celtic people. Although it has become associated with Ireland, you'll find examples throughout the European continent. Check out the rich and varied designs by this culture and let historical sources inspire your own creations. Many different media work well with Celtic design, so use pencil, pen, marker or paint to complete your artwork.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Pencil
- Pen
- Markers in assorted colors
- Paint in assorted colors
- Paintbrush
- Ruler
- Compass
Instructions
-
-
1
Use spirals in your design to capture the look of Celtic art. The style typically features numerous looping spirals that appear infinite because of their complexity. Use large and small spirals to fill the space of your design.
-
2
Incorporate animal forms, called zoomorphics, into your design. Combine your animal forms with abstract linear elements, such as spirals, to deepen their connection to Celtic art.
-
-
3
Form intricate knots and braids of thick, colorful lines. This feature in Celtic art is called an interlace. Use it as a border for a page, an abstract element to fill space or a decorative element inside of other features, such as garments or crosses.
-
4
Draw or paint Celtic crosses in your art. This famous symbol of Celtic art adds a circle behind the transept of a traditional cross. Fill the inside of the cross with spirals and interlaces for an authentic look.
-
5
Make your Celtic design with pure, intense colors and never dull your hues with brown or gray. The vibrant, colorful appearance of Celtic art remains one of its most identifiable characteristics.
-
6
Use flat two-dimensional design and do not shade or try to create the illusion of three-dimensional space. Most Celtic art uses abstract geometric form rather than visual devices to give the illusion of volume or depth.
-
7
Fill empty space with color, line and geometric patterns. Celtic art features vibrant pages filled with spirals, animals and other design elements. Follow this technique to capture an authentic appearance.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Keep lines smooth and clean by using rulers and compasses for geometric shapes.
References
- Photo Credit Photos.com/Photos.com/Getty Images
