One Reason I LoveMixed-Media Art

One thing I absolutely l.o.v.e. about the creative process is the alchemy of it all. The experimentation draws me in, it invites me to play and make, regardless of an outcome. This morning is a perfect example. I’ve had a bit on my plate this week/month with all of the new blog goodies I am working on as well as videos, course ideas, and getting ready to open my new online shop. It’s all very exciting, but today I realized I was letting my to-do list run a little too much of my day. I’m also taking Renee Mueller’s current portraiture class, Collected Stories. It is about portraiture with a "nod to classical art, collage, and fun". It is a wonderful class from what I have watched so far and the work coming out of the group is simply amazing! I hope to spend more time in the classroom this weekend. All of this to say, one of the lessons discusses making your own marks. I decided to grab a few scraps of tracing paper, a vintage clothespin, and some India ink.

Then, because I'm fascinated with experimentation, I had the idea to dip the papers into encaustic medium. There is something so romantic and inviting when working with encaustics. While at times it is like taming cats, it also allows for so many opportunities to learn and grow. I was smitten the moment I pulled the papers out of the wax.

Sitting on my encaustics table was this little 4x4 cradled board, which happened to be a fallout item from a session that just did not go as planned. I now understand why. Once the wax cooled and I fused the layers together, I brought the piece up into my very bright and cheery dining room to reflect on it a little more. I knew it needed something more. Why not dry roses?

I added the roses and later in the evening, I added the wire stems to the roses. I can not begin to tell you how much fun it was to just play and experiment. Today’s little creation has inspired me already in some other areas of work and I cannot wait to play and explore.

Beauty is Everywhere – Create with It!

The Beauty for me today - Working on this piece took my mind off my to-do list and allowed me to just be, play, experiment, and enjoy the process. I’m also very partial to encaustic wax, even when it is messy, the fragrance is beautiful all by itself. Add in the roses, which I also used to create a cup of Earl Gray tea…sigh… it was delicious!!

The alchemy alone in mixed-media art is a thing of beauty in its own right.

Supplies Used: Black India Ink | Encaustic Medium | Panel Board | Tracing Paper | Vintage Clothes Pin | Dried Roses | Jewelry Wire Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you click through to them and make a purchase I may earn a commission. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and know that they may help you with your creating adventures. Thank you for your purchases and support.