My Joyful Creative Journey

Embracing the Freedom of Mixed Media Art and Oil Colours

Mixed media art has been a delightful adventure for me, allowing my creativity to flourish as I blend various materials into captivating pieces. The beauty of this art form lies in its versatility, and it invites you to experiment and innovate. In this article, I’ll share my personal experiences with two mixed media oil colour paintings, highlighting how I combined different art materials to bring my visions to life.

My Outdoor Inspiration and Textural Exploration

Capturing Nature’s Essence

My first mixed media oil colour painting, "Memories of Summer Dragonfly 2," began as an en-plein air exercise that I documented in a YouTube video. Inspired by the stunning surroundings of Cockington Court, I set out with a few essential materials: spray paints, oil colour bars, and two canvas sheets. My goal was to connect with an old elm tree, gathering textural insights from its bark while embracing the spontaneity of the moment.

1. Gathering Natural Materials: I collected various natural objects from the ground, laying them on my canvas sheets with a thoughtful composition in mind. Note: Only leaves that had already fallen was used, taking care not to cause any damage to nature
2. Building Layers with Spray Paint: I started applying spray paints to create layers and dynamic colour shifts that reflected the outdoor ambiance.
3. Creating Texture with Oil Bars: Holding my canvas against the tree trunks, I used oil bars to capture the texture and patterns from the bark. While the canvas was thick, my persistence began to yield fascinating results.
4. Final Touches: I took my canvas sheets to the pavement, continuing the textural rubbing with oil bars and finishing with a few more layers of spray paint.

To watch the video that documents the en-pein air excursion go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4ecKFWwgwE&t=156s

 

Transitioning to the Studio

Once back in my studio, the real magic unfolded:

1. Sealing the Painting: I sealed the artwork with Acrylic Glaze Medium, letting it dry to protect my layers. Note: If the layers are likely to bleed an acrylic spray varnish would work better.
2. Oiling Out with Galkyd and Linseed Oil: Following the advice of Patrick Jones in "Oil Painting Masterclass – Sci-fi and Fantasy," I mixed 50% Galkyd with 50% Linseed Oil to speed up the drying process. This method enables Patrick to store and reuse his mixes for days.
3. Enhancing Colours with Thin Glazes: I started applying thin glazes to enhance the existing colours, gradually adding semi-transparent mixes and incorporating dragonflies inspired by a serene summer walk by the lakes on the grounds at Cockington Court.

This painting journey became a beautiful reflection of my personal experiences, evoking the peaceful joy I felt during my time in nature.

To watch the video that documents the application of oil colours to the painting “Memories of Summer Dragonfly 2” go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QREC-GI2GNA&t=3s

My Next Project: "Fragility and Rigidity"

A Dream-Inspired Mixed Media Masterpiece

The second painting, "Fragility and Rigidity," was born from a dream, an idea captured when waking, and an art club topic centred around collage. I gathered an array of materials, excited by the possibilities they held.

1. Creating the Foundation: I began with a drawing of a young woman lying next to a standing stone on a large piece of heavy-duty watercolour paper. Layering various textured and patterned papers, I crafted her soft, flowery dress and the sturdy granite stone.
2. Adding Tissue Papers: I incorporated tissue papers for the foreground and middle distance, completing the first session at the art club with a sense of accomplishment.
3. Exploring Acrylic and Watercolour Techniques: Upon returning to the art club, I used acrylic watercolour techniques and water-based spray paints to create a moorland mist effect, connecting the fragility of the young woman with the permanence of the standing stone.

Studio Refinements

Once back in my studio, I continued refining the piece:

1. Fixing the Painting: I fixed the painting with Acrylic Glazing Medium and allowed it to dry, preparing the surface for further exploration.
2. Applying Light Glazes: I began with light glazes to enhance the existing colours and create depth. Gradually, I transitioned to semi-transparent and opaque oil colours, tightening the drawing of the figure as I made adjustments, like repositioning her arm for better flow.

This painting has taken on a life of its own during what I call a "rest period," where I let the image marinate in my mind, awaiting further inspiration.

 

Essential Materials for My Mixed Media Journey

Throughout these projects, I relied on various materials that enhanced my creative process:

• Canvas and Watercolour Paper: Sturdy surfaces like canvas and smooth watercolour paper provided the perfect foundation for my artwork.
• Spray Paints: Water-based spray paints allowed for quick colour shifts and dynamic layering.
• Oil Bars and Oil Colours: I used oil bars for texture and rich oil colours for depth and detail.
• Acrylic Paints and Glazing Medium: Transparent and non-transparent acrylic paints, along with acrylic glazing medium, helped protect and enhance my work.
• Collage Materials: Various papers and fabrics added texture and intrigue to my pieces.
• Brushes and Sponges: A variety of brushes and sponges enabled me to apply and blend materials seamlessly.

Tips for Combining Art Materials

Layering and Collage

• Layer different materials like paper, fabric, and paint to create complex visuals that engage viewers.
• Incorporate collage elements to add texture, visual interest, and everyday objects into your work.

Textures and Embellishments

• Experiment with physical components, such as tissue paper or beads, to introduce tactile elements into your artwork.
• Use decorative items like buttons and ribbons for visually stimulating effects.

Planning and Composition

• Sketch a rough outline of your composition and decide which mediums to use where.
• Allow your creativity to guide you in arranging your materials spontaneously.

Digital and Traditional Integration

• Consider combining traditional art techniques with digital elements for a unique fusion of styles.

Inclusion of Oil Colour

• Add oil colours on top of water based media to create multi layers of depth and visual enhancements. Prior to applying oil colour seal with acrylic spray varnish or acrylic glaze medium to protect the underlying painting and substrate from the oils.

Caring For Mixed Media Artworks

• The oil colour mixed media painting on canvas above requires no special care. Once dry it will be varnished to provide long term protection. The painting can be stretched and framed like any other oil colour painting.
• The mixed media painting on heavy duty water colour paper will require framing and putting behind a non reflective glazing for best viewing and protective experience.

Conclusion

Mixed media art is not just a technique for me; it’s a joyful adventure filled with personal experiences and creative exploration. By combining different art materials, I can express my visions and emotions in ways that resonate deeply. Whether inspired by nature, dreams, or moments of serenity, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your paints, papers, and other materials, and embark on your own joyful creative journey. Remember, each piece is a reflection of you—let your creativity shine!

 

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