Sheri Gruver Wk5As2

Part 1
Study the following three mixed media paintings. After completing the reading assignments, experiment with combining different media. Use the media required for this course by themselves or with others, as you wish. Try at least four different media combination when experimenting. Try conducting your experiments on watercolor paper, pastel paper, or gesso-primed paperboard. If you are planning to scan in your work, be sure it is thoroughly dry before scanning.. Make small compositions for this assignment. Use the “Teapot, Teacup” sketches from week 1 as a starting points for all four. Provide a verbal description of the techniques used.

First drawing – For this one I used marker to create the outlines of the teapot and cup. I then added layers of chalk pastel and more markers. I found that when you layer chalk pastel over marker, it creates a really nice faded but solid shadow. A muted color of whatever marker you used.

Second drawing – This drawing was started with an outline of the teapot and cup using charcoal pencil. Then, I used layers or marker and chalk pastel to get the colors I wanted. For the background I put drenched the paper with water and rubbed chalk pastel over it. This created an almost paste like consistency with the pastel, so I smeared it around and created a really neat texture.

Third drawing – For this drawing I used a lot of charcoal pencil to create the outline and shading of the teapot and cup. I then rubbed in colored chalk pastel and went back with more charcoal pencil. I used water and charcoal pencil for the smoky background.

Fourth drawing – For this final drawing I used a lot of chalk pastel and marker. I used the technique of layering chalk on top of the marker to create a faded but solid shadow. I wanted a really airy feel, so I used my finger a lot.

Part 2
Think about the following discussion points. Post your thoughts on any 2 of them in the Discussion Area. Your response should be no more than three paragraphs long. You may then respond to your classmates’ comments by the end of the week and submit your response to the Discussion Area. Try some of the techniques that others liked and report your results. You may also let us know about any new discoveries you have made since your initial response.

2) Did you discover any additional tips or tricks for mixing these techniques?

A trick I discovered was layering chalk pastel over wet marker. It creates a solid but muted shadow. Almost like a layer in Photoshop where the transparency is turned down. I really like how this looks so different than any of the medium being used to create it.

5) Locate an online tutorial or video demonstrating mixed media techniques and discuss what you learned.

I found this online tutorial at youtube.com. I really enjoy it because it shows how messy and fun mixed media can be. I also just love the energy of the artist. She uses so many things in her art: felt, gesso, paint, water, sponges, and much more. It’s just super. Very inspirational!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUZMKM2U1gw

Part 3
Choose one painting and discuss the question located below each image. Be specific.

Some illustrations focus on color rather than form. Do you think this approach would work better for a technical article or one that is more subjective in nature? Why?

I often like to do my illustrations focusing on color rather than form. I think it catches the eye and requires the viewer to really focus on the piece. I think this would work better for a subjective article, simply because it is almost subjective in its creation. It could be used in a technical article but to do so might take away the preciseness needed in most technical articles.