Mixed Media Art is Good for the Brain
Let me share a little secret: the magic of mixed media art is that it’s not just about making pretty pictures; it’s about finding a way to express yourself and maybe even work through some of life’s ups and downs. Trust me, I’ve been there, and it’s been a game-changer.
I first got into mixed media art in 2010. I had always been artistic and creative, and before this I had been heavily into scrapbooking for some time. I had even dabbled in trying some mixed media art thanks to a book I had by artist Misty Mawn that I found so inspiring. But the idea of doing mixed media art for myself really took hold when I started a mixed media self-portrait when I was going through my divorce.
2010 was a very difficult year. I was transitioning from being married for eight years to life as a single mom of a 5-year-old daughter. One of the mixed media ideas I had seen involved cutting up a photograph and putting it back together on the canvas. I took two photos of myself and cut them into vertical strips, then glued them to my canvas alternating between photos. I made a background and used the words “I Am Not Broken Without You.”
When I had finished that self portrait, I was proud of the artwork I had created. But I also found something surprising. I felt better. After a year of tears and sadness and feeling lost, I felt stronger and more capable. I hung the portrait on my wall and every time I looked at it, I was reminded of how far I had come, and that I could handle this.
It was my first introduction to the magic of mixed media art, and it sent me on a journey that has lasted almost 15 years!
Why Mixed Media Art Feels So Good
Ever had one of those days where everything feels like it’s piling up? Mixed media art can be your escape hatch. When you’re knee-deep in paint, paper, and random bits and bobs, you’re not just making art; you’re giving your brain a break. It’s like hitting the pause button on all the stress and just focusing on creating something cool.
Using different materials—like old magazines, fabric scraps, or even that weird button you found in your junk drawer—can be super satisfying. It’s like turning chaos into something beautiful. Plus, it gives you a sense of control, which can be pretty empowering when life feels out of whack.
And let’s not forget the emotional side. Sometimes, it’s easier to show how you feel with colors and textures than with words. The magic of mixed media art is that it lets you dig deep into those feelings and then let them go. It’s a safe way to process stuff without blowing up at your roommate or stewing in your own thoughts.
The Fun of Mixing It Up
One of the coolest things about mixed media is that there are no rules. Seriously, you can mix paint with fabric, throw in some found objects, and maybe even a bit of glitter if you’re feeling fancy. The sky’s the limit.
This freedom to experiment can lead to some pretty amazing discoveries. You might stumble upon a technique or a combination of materials that you absolutely love. And guess what? That’s how you find your unique style. It’s like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, you find your artistic voice.
Whether you’re a pro or just getting started, mixed media has something for everyone. It’s a way to push your boundaries and see what you’re really capable of. And the best part? There’s no right or wrong way to do it. It’s all about what feels right to you.
So, why not give it a shot? Dive into some mixed media art projects, check out a workshop, or watch a few tutorials. Let your imagination run wild and create something that’s 100% you.
Diverse Mixed Media Artists
Mixed media art is a playground for creativity, and some artists and teachers have truly made their mark. These folks bring their own flair and techniques, sparking inspiration and teaching others about the endless possibilities of mixed media. Like I did with Misty Mawn and Susan Tuttle when I first started with mixed media art, you too can find inspiration in other mixed media artists. Over the years I have followed many online and learned so much from their techniques and gotten inspired by their art. Here are some for you to check out for inspiration:
The Magic of Mixed Media Art: Discovering Inspiring Artists
First up, we have Kasia Avery. She’s been in the game for over a decade, sharing her mixed media magic both in-person and online since 2011. Kasia’s passion is contagious. On her website, The Everything Art Blog, she offers classes, supplies and inspiration. She states on her site, “My goal is to show you how you can enjoy the process and how to deal with your inner critic.”
Then there’s Francisca Nunes from Portugal. Her unique style and innovative methods turn everyday materials into jaw-dropping art. A biology teacher for 21 years, she turned her love of plants and Botany into a love for creating art journals using Nature and natural materials.
Nicole Warrington from Vancouver Island is a pro at art journaling and watercolor mixed media. Through her journals and paintings, Nicole champions self-expression and exploration. Her style is all about embracing your artistic quirks and finding joy in the process.
Iris Fritschi-Cussens, a Dutch artist based in London, uses art journaling as a tool for self-expression and self-discovery. Her classes help students tap into their emotions and experiences to create meaningful art. She states on her website, “I love using art and words to convey and understand my feelings as a human. In this I deliberately include the experience of difficult or ‘taboo’ emotions and times when being creative is a struggle.”
These artists and educators are key in inspiring the next wave of mixed media creators. Their expertise and passion push artists to try new techniques, embrace their unique style, and find joy in creating one-of-a-kind art. Learning from these pros can help artists up their game, expand their creative horizons, and find endless inspiration for their own mixed media art projects.
Forms and Styles of Mixed Media
Mixed media art is all about breaking the mold and letting creativity run wild. Two popular styles are collage and assemblage art, along with using found objects in paintings.
Collage and Assemblage Art
Collage art is like a creative puzzle. You take bits of paper, fabric, photos, and other materials, and piece them together to make something new. It’s a playground for experimenting with balance, composition, and storytelling. The different textures and elements make the artwork pop and come alive.
Assemblage art is collage’s 3D cousin. Instead of sticking things flat on a surface, you build sculptures using all sorts of random stuff—think old toys, broken tools, or even junk from the garage. It’s about giving new life to forgotten objects, turning them into thought-provoking pieces that make you see everyday items in a whole new light.
Found Object Art and Painting Styles
Found object art is all about turning trash into treasure. Artists take everyday items—stuff you’d usually throw away—and transform them into sculptures or installations. It’s a way to challenge what we think of as “art” and “beauty.” Suddenly, a rusty bolt or a piece of driftwood becomes a masterpiece.
Mixed media painting is where things really get interesting. Artists mix and match different mediums like drawing, sculpture, and textiles to create layered, textured works. Whether they’re making abstract pieces or more traditional paintings, the sky’s the limit. It’s all about pushing boundaries and seeing what happens when you blend different forms of art.
By mixing collage, assemblage, found objects, and various painting styles, artists can create one-of-a-kind pieces that break the rules of traditional art. The possibilities are endless, offering a playground for artists to explore and express themselves. For more ideas and inspiration, check out our article on mixed media art inspiration.
Mental Health Perks of Mixed Media Art
Diving into mixed media art isn’t just about getting creative; it’s a fantastic way to boost your mental health. Making art can help you chill out, feel better about yourself, and give you a sense of achievement.
Art as a Stress Buster
For many of us, mixed media art is like therapy. It lets us pour out our feelings and find peace in the creative process. Playing around with different materials, textures, and colors can be super calming. It’s a break from the daily grind, letting us focus on making something beautiful and meaningful.
Experts say mixed media art is especially helpful for folks dealing with ADHD and trauma. It gives them a sense of control and purpose, using collected items in a meaningful way. This can be empowering and a great way to express themselves. When I’m deep into creating, I can let go of my worries and find a new sense of calm and balance.
Feeling Good About Yourself
Finishing a mixed media piece is a big deal and can really boost your self-esteem. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or just starting out; creating something unique and personal feels amazing. Trying out different techniques and materials helps me discover new skills and push my creative limits.
The pride and satisfaction from completing a piece can be life-changing. It boosts my confidence and helps me appreciate myself, even if I usually struggle with low self-esteem. This change in how I see myself can greatly improve my overall mental health, leading to more self-assurance and a brighter outlook on life.
Getting into mixed media art also helps me swap bad habits for good ones. By filling my time with creative activities, I have less room for things that might harm my mental health. Focusing on creative expression lets me channel my energy into something positive and nourishing.
In a nutshell, the magic of mixed media art is that it can be a goldmine for mental health benefits. It offers a therapeutic way to reduce stress, boosts self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment, and provides a positive outlet for your energy. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, exploring mixed media can be a powerful tool for improving your mental well-being.
Finding Your Muse: Tips for Mixed Media Artists
Being a mixed media artist means always hunting for that next spark of inspiration. Whether it’s discovering new materials or honing your skills, keeping your creativity alive is key.
Hunting for Unique Materials
To keep your art fresh and exciting, you need to find materials that speak to you. Here are some spots to check out:
- Local Art Galleries: Pop into local galleries to soak up the work of other artists. You never know what might spark a new idea.
- Nature Walks: Take a stroll outside. The colors, textures, and patterns in nature can be a goldmine for new ideas.
- Thrift Stores: Hit up thrift stores for vintage finds like old books, maps, buttons, and fabric scraps. These can add a unique touch to your art.
- Local Markets: Browse local markets for handmade papers, unique textiles, and other goodies made by local artisans.
- Art Groups: Join an art group to connect with other artists, share ideas, and learn new tricks.
- Online Art Communities: Engage with online art communities or forums. It’s a great way to connect with artists worldwide and get inspired.
- Craft Supply Stores: Check out craft stores for a wide range of materials like paints, beads, ribbons, and specialty papers.
- Specialty Paper Stores: Visit stores that specialize in paper. You’ll find all sorts of textures, patterns, and finishes that can add depth to your work.
- DIY Paper Making: Try making your own paper. Blend recycled paper, plant fibers, or fabric scraps into a pulp. This lets you play with textures and colors, creating something truly unique.
Life can throw unexpected things at us daily. Sometimes it’s hard to know how to handle the stress of everyday life. One day, it’s tackling problems head on so they can be overcome. On another, it’s making time for yourself to recharge and destress. During those times, losing yourself in mixed media art can be a great coping mechanism. You can let your mind wander, spend time doing something enjoyable, and even have a finished product you’re proud of when you’re done!
In the end, the magic of mixed media art isn’t just about creating something beautiful—it’s about tapping into a powerful, creative outlet that uplifts your spirit, calms your mind, and adds a little more joy to everyday life!
- Art That Heals: The Mental Magic of Mixed Media - August 20, 2024
- The Fundamentals of Mixed Media Art: How to Create Art That Inspires - August 14, 2024
- From Chaos to Creation: 3 Experimental Mixed Media Painting Techniques to Try - June 24, 2024
