Mastering Mixed Media ~ Learning new techniques

Hello everyone!

If you've been reading along for a while you've probably guessed that I'm passionate about all things "mixed media." The other day I came across this free online event called Mastering Mixed Media. It runs from May 1st until May 14th with daily art sessions presented by artists from around the world. Apart from being loads of fun, each session is in  a different style using a variety of mediums.

Even though I know I won't be able to do them all (40 lessons!), I endeavor to at least watch them. There's always useful information and valuable advice to glean from these types of videos. Here's what I have created so far.

This art session was presented by artist Laura Horn. It combined transparent watercolors with mark making in pen and pencil. While I find working with watercolors challenging and I rarely work with them, I did find this loose, abstract way of painting enjoyable! 

This lesson by artist Toni Burt was closer to my style. It incorporated quirky face sketching with graphite pencils - which I love - and bits of collage, which I often use in my art practice.

This lesson was taught by French artist Laly Mille. I was immediately drawn to this playful, colorful style with collage layers and whimsical elements. I added some butterflies that I had punched out from my gelli prints and I also drew a little wonky house. This took some time due to the many collage layers and drying time of the paint. 

This Mixed Media event is free while it's running. Once it closes there is the option to purchase the classes with life-time access. While we're on Day 4, it's not too late to join! You can still access the sessions from the previous days. Click here for more information and to register.

 

Have a great week!

Mixed Media Art Journal Flip Through

Hello blog friends!

I finally completed the art journal that I started last year. I chose a vintage-style theme, although I did sneak in a few semi-abstract artworks as you can see above.

I did a flip-through reel on instagram if you want to take a look at all the pages. Enjoy!

Thanks for stopping by. Have a beautiful day!

                                                                                                                                            

Colorful Abstract Artwork

Hi everyone!

Recently, I was in the mood to create abstract art. I did not have specific ideas, but when I came across digital images by UK artist Mike Deakin, it sparked something in me. So I went ahead and painted my version of an abstract portrait the traditional way. The face is intentionally quirky and disproportional with the focus on color and expression. There are rectangular pieces of neutral collage underneath the primary colors, which add depth to the portrait. Not too bad for first try!

The next two paintings are completely non-representational. Perhaps with the above portrait still fresh in my mind I continued with the angular shapes and lines. In the first one I worked with a limited palette and used mostly acrylic paints - brushing them on in some areas and using a scraper in others. To add dimension I made a series of dots and lines with acrylic paint markers. This piece could be described as a bold graphic.

The second painting is more colorful. I used acrylic paints, crayons and colored pencils. If you look closely you can see subtle details peeking through the multiple layers. Despite the angularity it turned out surprisingly cheerful.

All artwork was done in a 20 x 20 cm art journal, mostly using acrylic paints.

Often, I use art as a visual communication when words fail me. These three pieces are an example of my emotions needing to "come out". I almost always feel way more settled once I make those final touches to the artworks. 

If you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll note that my style differs from post to post. This is because there is no one style that I prefer and I've made peace with it 😄 

Thank you, again, for visiting my blog. Wishing you a wonderful day and weekend ahead!