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By Iva Cannon


Portraiture has been popular through the centuries as a way of recording the appearance and personality of an individual. Mixed media portrait artists have taken this form of art and pushed it to a new level by using all kinds of tools, substrates and materials. Some may use only a combination of two different materials such as pastels and charcoals while others take full advantage of many different elements to bring their ideas to life.

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.

The substrates used vary widely too. Canvas, paper, wooden panels and even other materials not usually associated with art are used. One artist creates her own fabric paper by blending together paper, fabric, paint and glue. Another uses old wooden doors on which to paint his portraits.

Some artists take advantage of all the developments in technology to help them express their ideas. For example, copy machines or laser printers allow them to change an original image and enlarge, reduce, overlap and crease it or even rip it apart and enlarge certain pieces. They then experiment with composition until they are satisfied with its dynamic, graphic appeal. So many tools can be used today such as powders, waxes, gels, pens, inks and charcoal, all of which create different effects and work together in interesting ways.

Working with many different elements gives an artist the opportunity to bring across ideas and feelings. Universal concepts such as alienation, searching for identity in a world of uncertainty and many others may be addressed. Layers and combinations of materials can help in expressing these ideas and the viewer is challenged to think about what they are seeing.

A three-dimensional effect is often created in these portraits by the layering of objects. Fabric, lace, newsprint and more may be used to give extra texture and dimension. Solid objects like keys, chains and buttons also help to create dimension. Many different types of fibers are used too and even hand-embroidery may be incorporated.

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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