The Evolution of a Mixed Media Collage
I've been on a real bird kick lately, and this mixed media piece evolved from a poem I wrote and a photo my husband took in Yosemite National Park, California. 
I entitled the poem, "Broken Promises." I needed a red-breasted robin so I could create a visual poetry piece, so I dug through past pics until I found the bird. Then, I put the two together using Photoshop CS5. 
Yet, the more I looked at this piece, the more I desired to create a mixed media collage. So, I decided to try to paint the bird with oil paints. 
Next, I added scrapbook paper to the left side of the canvas. I used Golden Gel Medium (Regular Gel Matte) to collage the paper onto the canvas. This paper is designed by Brenda Walton and comes from K&Company. 
I added the poem by printing it onto two different pieces of paper. I made the lettering of one a bit lighter so I could create contrast. I then used Golden Gel Medium (Regular Gel Matte) to collage the poem onto the canvas. 
Embellishments were then collaged onto the canvas. I used Brenda Walton's Designer Paper, "The Timeless Type Stack" by DCWV, and "Tim Holtz Idea-ology."
Lastly, I used Tim Holt Distress Ink to create an antique look: Vintage Photo, Walnut Stain, and Fired Brick.
Collage is an enjoyable way to express yourself artistically. You might begin with a photo, poem, or quote, but then your innovation kicks in and you can create a mixed media piece that means something to you and to others. I encourage you to experiment with mixed media collage.
Share this:
