4.3 ART MAKING EXERCISE: MIXING MATERIALS

The materials we choose and how we use them to make our art is an important part of our artistic decision making and expression.

I encourage you to experiment with art supplies and be reflective about the ones that most appeal to you, the ones you really enjoy using. In the same way that we all have our own distinct lexicon of marks, we all have a special affinity or natural attraction to certain materials and ways of combining them. There can be a real sensory joy, tactile pleasure and sense of connection with your chosen art materials.

When working in your sketchbook be conscious of which materials make you feel excited, at ease and expansive and which materials make you feel restricted or awkward. Try completing the same exercises with different materials, experiment and see what feels better for you.

I love experimenting with new products. But rather than buy new products to try and boost creativity we should always start with what we have. I am as guilty as the next person in believing that a certain new paint or a new type of ink will elevate my artistic practice. Be mindful of shopping for supplies as a substitute activity for actually using the supplies you have.

In designing this course I have tried to demonstrate exercises you could do with a wide range of different materials. I encourage you to test out and explore any art materials you have, embrace what you love using and what you have to hand and adapt the exercises to fit the materials that resonate with you.