Mixed Media Art

This semester we have been experimenting with different types of art materials.  The children seem most drawn to the paint, so that is what we have worked with often.  We have used different types of brushes and paints to gain a deeper understanding of painting techniques.  Often these experiences last one or two sessions.  To encourage revisiting and reflecting, we started a new art piece this past week.  Rather than completing the piece in one sitting, we have been adding different materials each session.  The children are able to explore different paint types, different techniques, and different textures.  We are not only using paint, but also adding in different types of collage materials. 

For our first layer, we used tempera paint.  The children decided on the colors we would use for the base of our project.  We mixed together different shades of blues and purples to paint with.  For the children, this experience seemed to be about covering the whole paper.  They covered majority of the paper, but left one corner open.

For our next layer, we used gold and silver watercolor paint.  We decided to use this paint to see how it would interact with the colors we already used.  The children were excited to help mix up the watercolor paint, and kept wanting to add more to make the color darker.  When we began painting, they focused on covering the areas not yet covered.  The color was very light, and not noticeable while painting.  When the colors dried, we noticed a shimmer to the painting.

The third layer consisted of collage materials.  We started first with tissue paper that was light colored, so it would not affect the colors.  We wanted to look more at the texture, and how the tissue paper affected the texture of the project, rather than adding new colors.  The children noticed they could see the paint colors under the tissue.  They also noticed the glue they used affected the paint, even though it was already dry.




















We will be adding another layer this week.  The plan is to incorporate materials which will add more textures to the piece.  We're thinking about gems and tiles for our next layer.  We will continue to add more to the piece until the children feel it is complete.  Revisiting and reflecting on their work is so important.  It helps children to become more intentional and thoughtful about their work.