LAYERING TECHNIQUES for Mixed Media Paintings - Ann Baldwin

LAYERING TECHNIQUES
for Mixed Media Paintings

To create rich textures and colors there is no better way than building up layers in a variety of media. Here is a typical procedure for creating interesting rocks and canyons:

1. Draw only the basic shapes onto your support (rough watercolor paper has the best texture).

2. Cover some large areas with contrasting textures and colors of paper. Here are some suggestions. Appropriate adhesive is in parenthesis:

creased tissue (matte medium)
corrugated cardboard (gel medium)
torn scraps from an old painting (gel medium)
gold foil (gel medium)
rice paper (matte medium)

3. Begin using paint to alter the colors and values in some areas. You might try this order:

(a) a glaze (thin layer) of transparent paint (Golden liquid acrylics)

(b) tube or jar paint brushed lightly over the ‘peaks’ – use very light, very dark, or very bright colors which will show through subsequent layers in brief glimpses

(c) even more lightly brush on another layer of thick paint in a contrasting color or value

(d) rub crayon (Staedtler or Caran d’Ache wax/oil Neocolor I are best) over some areas to add another ‘glaze’, allowing previous layers to show through

(e) add lines in waterproof ink (FW acrylic inks applied with a dropper or fountain pen, Speedball calligraphy pen, or liner brush. Or try a Sharpie or Zig Calligraphy waterproof pen)

(f) add spatter from a toothbrush

Of course, at any stage you can always add more collage. In fact, overlapping and building up layers of paper always makes for exciting textures. Try adding small objects – glass, pebbles, wood chips (a low-heat glue gun is good for this, as the glue is clear and dries instantly).

IMPORTANT: Always allow each layer of paint to dry before applying the next