Term: Mixed Media

"Sunny Day" by Annette Olson

Mixed media is using more than one medium for artwork. For example, a work on canvas that combines paint, ink, and collage. When creating a painted or photographed 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.


A phrase sometimes used in relationship to mixed media 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. Often, found objects are used in conjunction with traditional artist media, such as paints and graphite, to express a meaning in the everyday life. In this manner, many different elements of art become more flexible than with traditional artist media." (Source: Wikipedia)

"Blue Lagoon" by Lynda Stevens