In the art world, the only limitation is your creativity.
That is why along with more classical art pieces and portraits, you can also find compelling mixed-media art. Think of the abstract works of famous mixed media artists such as Pablo Picasso. His mixed media artworks are instantly recognizable and showed the world that art can be any combination of things.
If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner Picasso and unleash your creativity, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about this art form along with some of our favorite mixed media painting techniques you can try.
What is Mixed Media Art?
First things first, let’s cover a brief history of mixed media. Compared to other art, mixed media work is a fairly new concept. According to the experts at Tate, the use of mixed media began around the early 20th century. The mixed media collages of Picasso became popular and more artists and critics alike became more accepting of mixed media art.
Essentially, mixed media art is composed of a combination of media or materials. For instance, it can combine wet and dry media like paint and paper or oil-based paints and acrylic paints, markers, and colored pencils…the list goes on. It’s all about unique combinations to create stunning visual effects.
It’s important to note that mixed media differs from multimedia art. The former is used to describe art made with more traditional, physical materials while the latter defines artwork that uses a combination of electronic media.
Mixed Media Techniques You Can Try
There’s really no right or wrong way to create mixed media art as long as you’re utilizing more than one medium. However, here are some mixed media techniques that you can try if you’re looking for a place to start.
Collage
This is by far one of the most popular types of mixed-media art. Collage art lets you take all sorts of ephemera like paper, fabric, photographs, newspaper clippings, etc., and stick them onto a supporting surface.
You can also incorporate acrylic techniques in this mixed media art form by incorporating paint. Consider underpainting and then creating a collage, or painting over certain areas. You can also use Nova Color's versatile Matte Medium or Gloss Medium Varnish as collage glue.
Stenciling
Stenciling is a great way to create eye-catching patterns or designs as part of your mixed media art. The best part about stencils is that they’re incredibly versatile and can be used with various media including acrylic paint, inks, or even texture paste.
Use a stencil and apply different mediums like acrylic paint and oil-based paints to create mix medium art.
Use a stencil and apply different mediums like acrylic paint and oil-based paints to create mix medium art.
Sculpture
Mixed media sculptures are a great way to take your creativity off a traditional canvas. Consider using a material like air-dry clay to create a sculpture and, once dry, get to work with a paintbrush, markers, and more.
The use of different materials is what makes mixed media sculptures stand out from traditional sculpted art.
Portrait
Mixing drawing with painting is a popular abstract mixed media painting technique, and ideal for creating unique portraits. A mixed media portrait usually combines different art mediums like acrylic and watercolor or pastels and craft paint.
The materials you choose are completely up to you! And with these tips for portrait painting, you’re on your way to creating a one-of-a-kind piece of art.
Layering
Layering is a fundamental acrylic painting technique that can also double as a mixed media technique. Rather than layering acrylic paint to create dimension, you should build up layers of different media to create depth and complexity in your artwork. Consider layering paper, paint, and fabric to achieve various effects.
Texturizing
Similarly to building layers, other acrylic techniques in mixed media can be used to create texture. Using gesso, modeling paste, or even everyday materials like sand, string, or even glitter can add tactile and visual interest to your art.
Glitter, especially, is a fun and easy addition to your art. You can even create dynamic shapes and lines with glue or stencils to place the glitter precisely where you want it. Make sure to use more than you need to thoroughly cover the glue before shaking off the excess.
Found Objects
Finally, this abstract mixed-media painting technique combines acrylics with everyday objects you have around your house. While a collage focuses more on paper media, you can take things a step further by using three-dimensional objects just buttons, coins, keys, or other ephemera. Adhere them to the surface and get creative painting them to integrate with the composition!
Ready to try some of these mixed media techniques for yourself? Browse Nova Color’s selection of acrylic paints, mediums, and more for your mixed-media art today!