I know what you’re thinking. “Mixed media? Really?”. Well, yes, why not? Just because the majority of my work is digital does not mean I cannot glean anything from this book. It’s all about inspiring the reader, getting them to look at their own work from a new perspective and being brave enough to introduce elements they would not normally consider. The tutorials are full of rich textures and bold, deep colours – almost dream-like in their symbolism and representation. The grand pieces of art that the author creates are mind-blowing in their authenticity and intricacy – they are typically around 2 foot square and not one square inch is bland or uniform in colour or texture – something I would dearly love to integrate into my work.
It is full of bold tips, such as freeing yourself from pre-set expectations and inhibitions, continuously experimenting with new media and approaches to working, and letting your subconscious take the fore on occasion. I took inspiration from one such tip when creating my Dalek piece recently. I stepped away from my pre-set notion of “background” and used Hexels to create a semi-abstract backdrop. Where the Dalek is the main focus of the piece, the background is a series of
The book is an intriguing mix of attitude and atmosphere, and I got the feeling I was glimpsing into a very personal world. Upon reaching the final chapter, this was confirmed. The final chapter is about self promotion and I found it very enlightening and interesting:
Evaluating and defining oneself as an artist requires honest and deep introspection with an on-going commitment to the process of staying true to the soul of ones work.
With this advice in mind, I have decided to stop beating myself up mentally about sometimes wanting to draw thick black lines around everything, and other times not. It’s about diversity, and it all depends on what I am feeling at that particular time, and what suits the image best. Basically, my work is what it will be. Don’t look at other artists or what style is popular right now, just do what I feel.
An interesting read, even for those with no desire in creating three-dimensional mixed media installations.
