Exploring Mixed Media
Tutor Su Fishpool provides a thoughtful insight into her teaching practice …
Mixed Media Artwork by Su Fishpool
Following artwork examples were created by students in Su’s Exploring Mixed Media class. Photos by Su.
Piet Mondrian 1942
“Unconsciously, every true artist has always been moved by the beauty of line, colour and relationships for their own sake and not by what they represent …
Consciously he has followed the forms of objects. Consciously, he has tried to express things and sensations through modelling and technique. But unconsciously, he has established planes; he has augmented the tension of line and purified the colour. Thus, gradually, through the centuries, the culture of painting has led to the total abolition of the limiting form and particular representation. In our time, art has been liberated from everything that prevents it from being truly plastic.”
This expression by the uplifting artist, Piet Mondrian, expresses so well I believe, why we do art. In our Exploring Mixed Media class we study drawing methods in all media, layering of colour, media, line and spatial components. From classical to contemporary, all art has the same considerations. The former is necessary for the latter.
The Mixed Media class is not just about moving towards abstraction. I encourage students to follow their own preferences in representations, though I do present topics as I feel a framework actually facilitates expansion of concepts.
We are all wired differently
There is always a topic, demonstration of media, and discussion at the beginning of each class.
We look at the arts from different periods, varieties of treatments, arts from many cultures and times.
I find it helpful to show several approaches to begin. Sometimes it assists to begin with shape and then add line, for example. To another artist line needs to be put in place first.
Just knowing there are many ways to work enables students to be more prepared to give it a go.
Collaborative learning
We also frequently have a commentary on the ways works are progressing. Design, composition, colour, textural elements, and rest areas are always remarked upon.
I feel this engages those in the group to learn from and encourage one another. The juxtaposition of working together generates a synergy of creative energy.
The crippling fear of failing to achieve must be overcome as it inhibits searching and learning. I encourage my students to let go of fear, the biggest stumbling block in the way of expression.
We have been so programmed to follow and perform in ways familiar. There is an enormous need to trust in our own judgements, to relax, surrender to something greater than we are. Then true learning and joy in that awareness takes place.
A steady confidence grows as we learn to create that which connects our hearts and minds and spirit.“
Rick Matear