Mixed media art is a versatile and exciting form of art. One of the key techniques in mixed media art is layering. In this guide, we will explore some of the key layering techniques in mixed media art and provide tips on how to achieve stunning results.
As you can see from the above painting there are multiple textures, materials and of course layers that combine to create one image. By the using similar colours and a composition that is still able to lead the eye to the focal point, the painting still comes together nicely as a whole. Use the tips in this guide to create paintings filled with layers of colour, texture and interest. I hope it helps you on your mixed media journey!
Choosing your materials
The first step in creating a layered mixed media piece is to choose your materials. This can include a wide range of materials, such as paper, fabric, paint, ink, found objects, and more.
Five go-to art materials that can be used for background layers:
1. Acrylic paint:
Acrylic paint is a versatile medium that can be used to create a solid colour background or a layered effect. It dries quickly and can be easily mixed with other mediums to create unique textures and effects. It is a must-have for mixed media artists as it dries fast and combines with so many other art materials.
2. Gesso:
Gesso is a primer that is used to prepare a surface for painting. It can be applied as a thin layer to create a smooth surface or a thick layer to create texture. Gesso can be tinted with acrylic paint to create a coloured background.
3. Watercolour paint:
Watercolour is a transparent medium that can be used to create a subtle, layered background. It can be applied in washes to create a soft, dreamy effect.
4. Scraps of paper:
Paper can be used to create a textured background. It can be applied with a gel medium or adhesive, such as watered-down PVA glue. Newspaper gives an added bonus as you can leave some of the text coming through which can add a story-like effect to your art.
5. Ink:
Ink can be used to create a bold background or water it down to create subtle washes of colour. It can be applied with a brush, pen, sponge or use it for printing. Simply coat the surface of something you want to embed in your artwork with ink and press it on to your paper.
Why paint on a layered surface?
Provides depth and texture to the painting. The layers can create a sense of depth and movement. Texture often captures the viewer's interest.
Fun to work with! Having the freedom to layer up your art with random materials is a fun experience. Just remember to wait for your layers to dry at each stage or you will end up with a big soggy mess on your canvas!
Influences the painting's colour palette and mood. The layers can be created using a variety of materials and techniques, such as collage, imprinting, or washes of colour. This provides a foundation for the painting: make a dark and moody painting even more atmospheric by using a pre-made background full of dark colours and text.
Provides opportunities for experimentation and creativity. The layers can be manipulated and altered in various ways, providing opportunities for the artist to explore different techniques and effects. This can lead to unexpected and exciting results that can make the painting more interesting and engaging.
6 examples of how to build up layers in mixed media painting:
1. Collage
Collage is a great way to create interesting background layers in mixed media art. You can use a variety of materials, such as magazine clippings, scrapbook paper, tissue paper, and even old book pages. Simply tear or cut the materials into small pieces and glue them onto your canvas or paper using PVA glue or a gel medium. Layer different colours and textures to create a unique background that adds depth to your artwork.
The collage below could either stay as it is or it could be the first layer of a mixed media painting including acrylics, coffee and dried flowers!
2. Gesso
By using a palette knife, your fingers or a sturdy brush, swipe some gesso in different directions to create a textured and lively background. You can also use it to 'draw' with as you can build up the structure of the image that you plan to paint on top.
3. Thick acrylic paint
Use a palette knife or piece of card to sculpt a layer of colour on to your canvas. I used this technique to give more definition to the trees in this mixed media painting.
4. Washes of inks and watercolours
Washes are thin layers of paint or ink that are applied to a surface to create a translucent effect. Washes can be used alone or in combination with other techniques to create a unique mixed media piece. Look at how the beautiful washes of watercolours provides the perfect background layer for the black ink!
5. Layer fabric
Paste down strips of fabric (with watered-down PVA glue) on to the surface of your painting. This creates texture and can add depth and interest when using different coloured or patterned fabrics.
6. Acrylic paint with pastels and charcoal
With just a few materials you can produce a quick and easy layered painting in your sketchbook. Starting with a background layer of watered-down acrylics, I've built up the bird painting using my mixed media.
7 tips for stunning mixed media painting:
1. Be confident with your base layer
The base layer is the foundation upon which you will build your mixed media piece. Create a good solid base layer that you can come back to if you get lost in the process of layering! Once you have chosen your base layer, start building up additional layers using a variety of materials.
2. Hold your horses! Wait for layers to dry
All your hard work will go to waste if you don't regularly wait for layers to dry. The cool effects you achieve will be forgotten if it all smudges together. Use a hairdryer to speed up drying times.
3. Playing with colour
Colour is an important element in mixed media art, and layering allows you to experiment with different colour combinations and effects. Try layering different shades of the same colour to create depth and dimension, or experiment with contrasting colours to create a bold and eye-catching composition.
4. Using translucent materials
Translucent materials, such as decoupage or tissue paper, can be used to add a sense of depth and mystery to your mixed media piece. These materials allow you to create layers that partially obscure the layers underneath, adding intrigue and visual interest to your work.
5. Seal your artwork
After using a layer of pastels or charcoal use a fixative spray to prevent them from smudging. Once you are happy with your work, give it a spray with a light varnish so all the markings, colours and textures will stay in place.
6. Balance your composition
As you build up layers in your mixed media piece, it's important to consider the overall composition and balance of the work. Incorporate elements that draw the eye towards the focal point of the piece.
7. Don't feel pressure to create texture
Despite my love of texture in art, I often have to remind myself that mixed media art can be just as impressive without texture. For example, layering watercolours, inks and pastels won't provide much texture but they can create some really impressive results. Try my class 'Painting Flowers with Watercolours and Charcoal' for a layered mixed media technique that is happy to be non-textured!
By following these tips and techniques, you can create stunning layered mixed media pieces that are rich in texture, depth, and visual interest. Experiment with different materials and techniques to find what works best for you, and let your creativity run wild!