Saturday, April 4, 2015

Portraits Created By Mixed Media Portrait Artists

By Iva Cannon


Portraiture has been used through the ages to capture the appearance of individuals and has many times even captured something of the character of the individual as well. Today portraiture is being interpreted by a new breed of mixed media portrait artists. For them no tools, techniques or substrates are off limits. They combine elements in ways to achieve one-of-a-kind effects. Some of them combine only a few different elements whilst others use a great variety to express themselves.

An artist producing this kind of work may have come through traditional fine art training whilst others may be self taught. Art as a means of expression always involves some experimentation and although each individual may have come a certain route, it is often the finished work that speaks for itself. A harmony has to be evident in the way all the elements are combined. Examining a portfolio will soon reveal the talent of a particular artist.

The techniques used are extremely varied. Sometimes pieces are carefully layered onto the substrate. At times layers may be created and then sanded, scratched or peeled to reveal those underneath. Weaving, stenciling, stamping and sponging are other techniques are also utilized. In fact, some individuals even invent their own techniques.

Many artists choose to use paper or canvas but for this type of work just about any surface is used. Some use wooden panels and one artist makes her own fabric paper from fabric, paint, paper and glue. Substrates are often chosen for qualities such as absorbency, texture, the way colors are reflected and more.

So many tools are available today that can result in mesmerizing results. Playing with a laser printer or copy machine, for example, allows the artist to alter the original content by ripping, creasing, enlarging, reducing or overlapping. They do this to create a more graphic, dynamic type of composition. Pens, inks, charcoal, wax, gels, powders and more offer a diversity of tools for creative expression.

Such portraits often express far more than just the appearance of the individual. Moods and feelings are expressed, arousing the emotions of the viewer. Larger ideas like self-identity, finding clarity and more may also be expressed. The way elements are combined are used to challenge the viewer and even change perceptions.

All kinds of different materials are used, from fibers and fabrics to beads, newsprint and feathers. Three-dimensional objects such as buttons, chains and keys are also used. Using such materials helps to create texture and give depth to a piece. Hand-embroidery and other crafted elements may even be introduced, all adding to the final result.

Unique portraits are created in this way that make valuable investments for any buyer. The artist working in this way is often able to break boundaries and stretch the imagination by using interesting combinations of techniques, tools and materials. In this way, new territory is won and artworks are produced that inspire and memorize us, giving a peak into what may be possible in the future.




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