“Start where you are, use what your have, do what you can.”
— Arthur Ashe
The magic of mixed media art making comes from the layers.
First layers can be marks made in paint or pen, they can be collage or textural. Sometimes the whole surface is covered, sometimes it’s just a few marks to break up that beginning expanse of nothing.
When you keep in mind that what goes down on the first layer will likely get covered up, it’s much easier to feel free to experiment.
I don’t strive to make something beautiful, I just play. Letting one idea feed the next and seeing where it leads.
Experiment by combining patterns of mark making on different surfaces – thin copier paper reacts very differently to paint and ink than watercolor paper, or tissue paper, or fabric. Investigate some of the infinite possibilities!
I like having a few pieces on the go at the same time. Ideas cross pollinate between them, and I can swap from one to another while the layers dry.
Consider how many ways there are to apply color to surface. Paint brushes are just the beginning, some of my favourite tools are not conventional things you’ll find in the art supply store 😉
Watch how the first layers of the first color of Twelvty began.
Every month this year I am making a series of pieces in just one color, so at the end of the year I can combine them into one big multicolored work.
I’ll be sharing my process throughout this adventure here in this blog.
I’d love for you to join me. TWELVTY is open to everyone, and better yet, it’s free!
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Mixy's Art Blog 
2 thoughts on “First Layers”