The Art of Being a Mixed Media Artist: Embracing Freedom, Exploration, and Self-Discovery

Being a mixed media artist is a journey of endless possibilities, where creativity knows no bounds and self-expression takes on many forms. It’s about embracing experimentation, combining different mediums, textures, and materials to bring ideas to life in the most dynamic and vibrant ways. For me, the essence of being a mixed media artist lies not just in the variety of materials I use but, in the freedom, to explore, experiment, and express the ongoing journey of self-discovery that permeates every piece of art I create.

The Freedom of Experimentation

One of the most exhilarating aspects of mixed media art is the sheer freedom it offers. Unlike traditional forms of art, which often confine the artist to a single medium, mixed media invites you to explore the limitless combinations of materials—paint, fabric, paper, metal, found objects, and more. This multidisciplinary approach allows for a greater range of expression, enabling the artist to convey ideas in a way that feels authentic and multidimensional.

I often move from one medium to another, driven by the desire to try something new, not always knowing how it will turn out. This process of discovery is at the heart of what I do; the more materials I experiment with, the closer I get to achieving the vision I have in my mind. Whether I’m incorporating gold leaf into a painting or blending acrylics with a textured medium, each piece is a unique exploration of both the material and the message I want to convey.

The Consistent Theme of Self-Discovery

Despite the wide array of materials and techniques I use, there is a consistent theme that runs through all my work—self-discovery. Every piece is an exploration of who I am, where I’ve been, and where I’m going. The act of creating is a deeply personal journey, a way for me to delve into my thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and translate them into visual form.

I usually start with a very loose sketch and a few words jotted down. I have a sense of what I want to say, but the challenge is in figuring out how to say it through the art. I’ve always been drawn to artworks that communicate something—whether it’s an opinion, an emotion, or an experience. I want my work to invite the viewer in, to tell them a story or evoke a feeling that resonates on a deeper level.

The Allure of Gold Leaf

It’s no secret that I’m passionate about using gold leaf in my artwork. The vibrancy, sheen, and texture it brings to my pieces are unparalleled. There’s something about the way gold leaf catches the light, the way it adds depth and richness to a piece, that I find irresistible. I use a variety of products, from gold paint to gold leaf, to achieve this effect, and it has become a signature element in much of my work.

Gold leaf is more than just a material to me; it’s a way to elevate my art, to add a layer of sophistication and elegance that enhances the overall composition. It’s also a reflection of my love for exploring textures and materials that bring something unique to the table. In a way, gold leaf embodies the very essence of mixed media art—combining the old with the new, the traditional with the experimental, to create something truly original.

The Joy of Multidisciplinary Art

Another aspect of mixed media art that I find incredibly fulfilling is the ability to work across multiple disciplines. One day I might be working on MDF and LED lights, and the next I’m back to painting with acrylics. This constant shift keeps my creative energy flowing and allows me to approach each project with fresh eyes and renewed enthusiasm.

I’ve come to realize that my need to switch between mediums might be connected to my ADHD, a restless mind that thrives on variety and change. By being able to move from one material to another, I’m able to channel that restless energy into my art, making the creative process more enjoyable and fulfilling. It’s possibly the one space where I can be completely free in the chaos of thought, where every idea, no matter how wild or unconventional, has a place.

Finding Home in Paint

While I love experimenting with different materials, paint will always hold a special place in my heart. There’s something about the fluidity of paint, the way it can be manipulated to create a desired effect, that feels like home to me. Acrylic is my preferred medium because of its quick-drying time, which allows me to add multiple layers until I feel the piece is complete.

Painting is where I feel most at ease, where my intuition takes over, and I instinctively know what to do. The consistency of the paint, the pressure of the brush, the way the colours blend and interact with each other—it’s a process that feels both natural and deeply satisfying. Even though I may struggle with drawing, painting is where I find my confidence, where I feel most in control of my artistic voice.

Conclusion

In the end, being a mixed media artist is about embracing the journey—of self-discovery, of experimentation, of creative freedom. It’s about breaking free from the constraints of traditional art forms and allowing yourself to explore the endless possibilities that different materials and techniques offer. Each piece I create reflects this journey, a testament to the joy of discovery, and the ongoing pursuit of artistic expression.

Whether I’m working with paint, gold leaf, or found objects, my art is a celebration of the chaos and beauty of life, a way to connect with others and share a piece of my story. For me, there’s no greater satisfaction than knowing that my art speaks not only to me but to those who encounter it, inviting them to join me on this incredible journey of creativity and self-discovery.