Mixed Media: Layering Paints and Papers to Create Rich Surfaces

In this class you’ll explore how to combine acrylic paints with a wide varietyof papers—both found and handmade—to create richly layered surfaces and a cohesive, unified mixed media work. You’ll learn about different substrates, how various materials interact, and techniques for making your own collage papers. You’ll also learn how to create or find a ‘materials palette’ and how to plan (as much can be planned) a mixed media composition before committing to gluing and painting, while still leaving room for the work to evolve. Because there is a push and pull when working with different materials, both additive and subtractive techniques will be demonstrated and used. You can expect to create your own papers, scrounge for found ones, experiment with layering, and play with working back and forth between paints and papers. Be fearless as you experiment, develop your work, and watch it evolve.

All levels welcome. Some experience with collaging and/or painting of any kind is helpful but not necessary.