Sometimes when I sit down to do a piece of new work, I try to wing it. Sometimes that works, but not always. Even if I am trying to be spontaneous, the project requires some basic skills and planning. So how can we be reasonably sure that when sitting down to do some art, it will turn into a surprisingly beautiful and intriguing piece worthy of the time we put into it?
It is said mixed media art is a captivating and versatile form of artistic expression allowing you to combine a wide range of materials to create unique and visually stunning pieces. When done effectively, mixing media can elevate your artwork to new heights, providing depth, texture, and complexity. In this guide, we'll explore how to combine different art materials effectively in a mixed media piece.
Start with a Vision:
Before diving into your mixed media project, it's essential to have a clear vision of what you want to create. For instance, I have a long term vision for a larger project that includes many parts, steps, and techniques to bring about the finished artwork. I think of my Bible Pantry project here.
Think about the emotions, themes, or stories you want to convey through your artwork . Again, one of the things I want to accomplish in my Bible Pantry project is to bring the scriptures alive in a new way.
Having a vision will help you choose the right materials and techniques to achieve your desired outcome.
Select your materials wisely:
One of the joys of mixed media is the vast array of materials at your disposal. Common materials include acrylic paints, watercolors, colored pencils, charcoal, ink, fabric, found objects, and paper. Again, as an example, some collected or found objects in my planned project will be used food cans. Another material under consideration is pages from an old Bible. Of course, that ultimately depends on how one views scripture and what is holy about it and what is common - entirely in the eyes of the beholder or maker.
The point is to choose materials that complement each other and align with your artistic vision.
Experiment with texture:
Texture adds depth and visual interest to your artwork. Incorporate different textures by using materials like textured paper, sand, modeling paste, or even textiles. In one artwork of mine, I used hot glue to make some interesting designs that became an integral part of the piece. Feel free to look at the image in my portfolio. It's name is Soul Fisher.
Experiment with layering and building up texture to create a tactile experience for the viewer.
Understand layering techniques:
Layering is a fundamental aspect of mixed media art. Begin with a base layer, which can be a canvas, paper, or wood panel. Build upon this foundation by adding layers of different materials. Use adhesive mediums like gel medium or modpodge to secure your layers. Consider transparency and opacity when layering to create depth and complexity.
I have several pieces where I have practiced the layering technique to where even in a photo of the artwork, it looks like you should be able to feel the texture and layers right in front of you! That is the flavor of mixed media art!❤️
Play with Contrast:
Contrast is a powerful tool in mixed media. Combine materials with contrasting qualities, such as rough and smooth, matte and glossy, or opaque and transparent. Contrasting elements will draw the viewers eye and add visual intrigue.
Balance Composition:
I remember once when someone looked at my scrapbook pages and commented on the geometry of it. I never thought of math concepts being part of a scrapbook page layout, but geometry is a concept built into art. Another word for it would be composition. Pay attention to the composition of your artwork. Balance the placement of different materials and elements to create a harmonious and visually pleasing composition. Consider the rule of thirds, focal points, and negative space. Sometimes less is more.
On occasion I have also been told that my artwork is very busy. Of course, they meant that in a good way. The work still spoke, but was not in a way preferred by the viewer. To each his own.😄.
Embrace Collage:
Collage is actually a common technique in mixed media art, allowing you to incorporate images, text, and other elements into your artwork. Some elements you might consider in your artwork are old magazines, photographs, or your own drawings to add depth and meaning to your piece. An example of this is an artwork I call On Eagles Wings, a piece that is part of my Americana collection. I used a drawing of an eagle I made, incorporating it into the larger picture of my mixed media piece.
Use Color Thoughtfully:
Color plays a vital role in mixed media art. Create a cohesive color palette that supports your artistic vision. Consider the emotional impact of different colors and how they interact when combined. For instance, say you need to work with a restricted palette of greens? So everything needs to be green. Green paints in a couple different colors, a piece of fiber in a green, pastels, crayons and so forth. Challenge yourself to come up with a piece of work incorporating those colors in different textures to come up with something unique. Or it could be a couple colors. I have done this with blues and yellows, black and white, or orange and brown. Another tool to help if you struggle with color combinations is to invest in a color wheel and just experiment.
Experiment and Repeat:
Be courageous and experiment with different combinations of materials and techniques. Sometimes the most unexpected combinations lead to the most exciting results. Keep a sketchbook or journal to document your experiments and ideas. One practice I have seen with mixed media and scrapbooking that I have occasionally kept is writing down a list of the elements and techniques that went into the artwork. I have seen it a lot, especially in how-to books. There are other times I realized I had not written down the specifics and wished I had, as it left me guessing exactly what I did, several years later. 😆.
Seal and protect your artwork:
One day my aunt asks what I used to protect my artwork once it was finished. I learned from her the need to protect your work and started purchasing appropriate varnishes for my projects. Once your mixed media piece is complete, protect it with an appropriate sealant or varnish. This will preserve your artwork and enhance its longevity. A few types of varnishes and sealants are as follows:
Acrylic Varnish: This varnish type is versatile and works well for most mixed media projects, especially those that incorporate acrylic paints. It provides a clear, glossy, or matte finish, depending on your preference. It's often available in spray or brush-on forms.
Mod Podge: This is a popular adhesive and sealant used in collage-based mixed media art. It's available in various finishes, including matte, glossy, and satin. It dries clear and is ideal for adhering paper elements and sealing the entire piece.
UV-Protective Varnish: If you want to protect your artwork from fading due to UV exposure, consider using a UV protective varnish. These varnishes have additives that shield your art from ultraviolet rays. Personally these are my favorite varnishes. I often use Krylon Gallery Series 1378 Matte for protecting my own work.
Resin: Epoxy resin is an option for achieving a high-gloss finish and adding depth to your mixed media piece. I have used this for projects like when adding images to coasters used to set hot mugs of liquid on. The resin is often poured onto the surface of the artwork and allowed to cure. I remember it took a couple days at least for this part of my project. Resin can be a bit more complex to work with, so follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Gel Medium: Gel medium can serve both as an adhesive and a sealant. It's commonly used to attach and protect collage elements in mixed media art. It dries clear and can be applied with a brush or palette knife.
Fixative Spray: If your artwork includes charcoal, pastels, or other delicate materials, using a fixative spray can help set these materials and prevent smudging. Fixatives are available in workable and final forms, with varying levels of protection. I have used such a spray to protect my drawings.
Matte Medium: If you prefer a matte finish, matte medium can be used as a sealant for your mixed media piece. It provides a non-glossy, protective layer.
Wax Medium: Some artists use wax-based sealants, like encaustic wax, to add a unique texture and finish to their mixed media art. Beeswax and soy wax are common choices.
Before applying a varnish or sealant, it's important to ensure that your artwork is fully dry and clean. Additionally, read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the chosen product. Application methods and drying times can vary. Always conduct a test on a small, inconspicuous area of your artwork to ensure compatibility and the desired result before applying it to the entire piece.
Mastering the art of combining different art materials in a mixed media piece is a journey of creativity and self-expression. By starting with a clear vision, carefully selecting materials, and experimenting with various techniques, you can create captivating and unique artworks that tell your story and captivate viewers. So, embrace the freedom of mixed media and let your imagination run wild. Your artistic journey awaits!