Easy Steps to Start Creating Mixed Media Art

Mixed media art is an emerging and colorful style of developing art in which the artist uses diverse elements, processes, and materials effectively. You could work in mixed media art if your level of practice is high or it is the first time you are trying out your artistic skills. Here are some tips on how to get started in mixed media art, and this can guide those upcoming artists out there who want to start making some projects or creations that are related to mixed media.

1. Gather Your Materials

To start, there are so many possibilities with mixed media art, and this is due to its flexibility. To create this masterpiece of yours, you can use almost any kind of material. Start by collecting a variety of materials:

• Paper: Different types and textures (watercolor paper, cardstock, tissue paper, old book pages)
• Paint: Acrylic, watercolor, gouache
• Drawing tools: Pencils, pens, markers, charcoal
• Adhesives: Glue sticks, liquid glue, Mod Podge
• Textural elements: Fabric scraps, yarn, buttons, beads
• Found objects: Photographs, magazine cutouts, tickets, leaves

But don’t let this pressure you into making bulk purchases you do not need. It is advisable to begin with what is available and go for more as one tries to understand the type that suits them best.

1. Choose a Base

Every mixed media artwork needs a foundation. This could be:

• Canvas (stretched or board)
• Heavy paper or cardboard
• Wood panel
• Old book cover

Your base should be sturdy enough to support multiple layers of materials. For beginners, a thick watercolor paper or small canvas is often a good starting point.

1. Plan Your Composition

However, it is not all the time that creating mixed media art is on the spur of the moment because it is more fun to paint with an idea of the outcome of your work in mind. Consider:

• Theme or subject matter
• Color palette
• Focal point
• Balance of textures and materials

Sketch a rough layout or create a mood board to visualize your ideas. Remember, this is just a starting point – your artwork will likely evolve as you work.

1. Build Your Background

The background establishes the overall mood of your work. Start by adding color and texture to your base:

• Apply a wash of watercolor or diluted acrylic paint
• Create patterns with stencils or stamps
• Collage paper elements like book pages or tissue paper
• Add texture with modeling paste or gesso

Don't worry about perfection – imperfections often add character to mixed media pieces. Before adding the next coat, let the previous one dry to avoid bleeding & smudging.

1. Layer and Experiment

This is where the magic happens! Start layering different elements onto your background:

• Cut and paste images or patterns from magazines or printed materials
• Add dimensional elements like fabric, buttons, or small found objects
• Create depth with translucent layers using tissue paper or vellum
• Incorporate text using stamps, stencils, or your own handwriting
• Experiment with different paint techniques like dripping, splattering, or dry brushing

As you work, step back periodically to assess your composition. Don't be afraid to cover up areas you don't like – that's the beauty of mixed media!

1. Add Details and Focal Points

Once you have your main composition in place, it's time to add details that will draw the viewer's eye:

• Create contrast with bold lines or dark shadows
• Highlight areas with metallic paint or glitter
• Add intricate patterns or doodles
• Incorporate a central image or photograph
• Use dimensional paint or modeling paste for raised elements

Remember, less is often more. Focus on adding details that enhance your overall composition rather than overwhelming it.

1. Seal and Finish

To protect your artwork & ensure its longevity:

• Apply a clear sealer & varnish to protect the surface
• If using a canvas, paint the edges for a polished look
• Consider framing works on paper to showcase and protect them

Finishing touches can also include signing your work and adding a title if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Embrace imperfection: Mixed media art is about experimentation and personal expression. Don't stress about making everything "perfect."
2. Allow drying time: Many mixed media techniques involve layering wet and dry materials. Patience in allowing layers to dry will prevent unwanted mixing and smudging.
3. Use reference images: If you're new to drawing or painting elements in your work, don't hesitate to use reference images for guidance.
4. Develop your own style: As you practice, you'll naturally gravitate towards certain materials and techniques. Embrace this as your unique artistic voice emerges.
5. Document your process: Take photos of your work at different stages. This can help you learn from your techniques and provide content for sharing on social media.
6. Join a community: Find online discussion boards and local art organizations where you can show off your creations, receive criticism, and draw inspiration from other artists.
7. Keep a mixed media journal: Practice techniques and experiment with ideas in a dedicated sketchbook or art journal.

Overcoming Creative Blocks

Even experienced artists face creative blocks. If you're feeling stuck:

• Start with a prompt or theme (e.g., "nature," "memories," "dreams")
• Limit your color palette or materials to challenge yourself
• Try a new technique you've never used before
• Collaborate with another artist
• Take a break and seek inspiration in nature, museums, or everyday life

Remember, mixed media art is about the journey as much as the destination. Each piece you create is an opportunity to learn, grow, and express yourself in new ways.

Conclusion

On the whole, getting engaged with mixed media art is a good thing, and it is fun to begin with. You are going to meet numerous different materials, use multiple techniques, and even ‘work yourself to death’ because, as far as the art is concerned, there are no missteps – only finding new things. If something does not come out as you expected, do not be very discouraged. That needs to happen at some point in someone’s life, and the more the drawing practice is done, the better it becomes.

And you will keep on discovering that as you pursue art using mixed media, you can dictate how you want it to be. From interior designing to arts and crafts, and even for professional artists who want to venture into mixed media, mixed media is an excellent way of transforming your ideas into reality.

To find inspiration and to observe the incredible opportunities of mixed media art, one should visit galleries that present such kinds of artworks. The Carolyn Johnson Gallery contains curated surfboard art pieces that the mixed media technique. I believe that exploring such collections will be helpful, inspiring, & informative to seek techniques, motivation, or ideas for one's own practice.

07-10-2024