Mixed media

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An example of a mixed media work: Untitled (1963) by Jane Frank (Jane Schenthal Frank), 45"X18.5". Mixed media (oil, spackle, charred driftwood, glass, crushed graphite, and canvas collage on canvas); private collection; image used with permission

Mixed media, in visual art, refers to an artwork in the making of which more than one medium has been employed. Visual artist Maria Jones uses pastel, acrylic paint, tape and Mylar in her abstract works on paper.

There is an important distinction between "mixed media" artworks and "multimedia art". Mixed media tends to refer to a work of visual art that combines various traditionally distinct visual art media. For example, a work on paper or canvas that combines paint, ink, and collage could properly be called a "mixed media" work - but not a work of "multimedia art." The term multimedia art implies a broader scope than mixed media, combining visual art with elements of the other arts (such as literature, drama, dance, or music).

When creating a painted or drawn work using mixed media it is important to choose the layers carefully and allow enough drying time between the layers to ensure the final work will have integrity. If many different media are used it is equally important to choose a sturdy foundation upon which the different layers are imposed. An old rule good to remember is "Fat over lean." In other words, don't start with oil paints. Plan to make them the final layer.

Many interesting effects can be achieved by using mixed media. Oftentimes, found objects are used in conjunction with traditional artist mediums, such as paints and graphite, to express a meaning in the everyday life. Denver local artist Tara Raine uses drywall, wax, found objects, acrylic paints, oil paints, and oil pastels in her artworks. This is to achieve a unique dimension; the drywall is painted with acrylic, then layered in clear wax, which is then carved into, which is then painted on with oils. In this manner, many different elements of art become more flexible than with traditional artist mediums.

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Description of Mixed-Media Collage Creation by Susan Krieg
History of Collage Excerpts from Nita Leland and Virginia Lee and from George F. Brommer
Wright, Michael; Royal Academy of Arts (Great Britain): An introduction to mixed media (London ; New York : Dorling Kindersley in association with the Royal Academy of Arts ; Boston : Distributed by Houghton Mifflin, 1995); ISBN 0789400006; ISBN 0751307483; OCLC 31776510

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[edit] External links

Identity Seven Mixed media art by Jen Osborn who specializes in manipulated transparencies.
Fabric Collage Fabric Collages by Laura Breitman.
Contemporary Russian Art Examples of various mixed media techniques by Russian artist, Sergey Sokolov.
Layers Upon Layers Mixed media blog
Why Not Art Mixed media works including fabric, paper, and bead art
Tara Raine Mixed media artist, artwork and art galleries in Denver, Colorado.