Spring is here in Scotland! How do I know? My garden is starting to awaken and people are swimming outside again in the local outdoor pool! It's still freezing but it's open! The plants that I always think are never going to make it, show me just how strong they are and the sun is making me smile.
Why am I telling you this?! I would like Spring to kick-start your creativity if it has been running a bit low lately. As an artist, you may yourself be inspired by this beauty and feel compelled to try to capture it on paper or canvas. By the end of this article, you'll understand why artists have been inspired by springtime throughout history and how to use its unique energy to craft your own works of art.
When the first days of spring arrive, nature is a sight to behold; delicate flowers blooming and trees budding with foliage create an idyllic atmosphere
Why use mixed media?
With mixed media art, there are so many ways for you to explore and express your experience of the changing seasons. Watercolours, gouache and acrylic paints are great for expressing light and vibrant colours. Collage elements such as fabric, scrapbook paper or leaves are great for adding texture. If drawing is more your style, then graphite and coloured pencils could be used to capture the intricate details of nature in a sketchbook journal.
I decided to go easy on myself today though and chose 2 are mediums for my sketchbook studies: oil pastels and charcoal sticks.
Oil pastels for the bold and bright colours
Charcoal to provide contrast and defined shape
Is that still classed as 'mixed media'?!
Yes! Mixed media doesn't need to be complicated. If you are using 2 or more materials to create your artwork you can safely call yourself a mixed media artist! I can't wait to get stuck in to other works where I'll include materials such as collage papers, glue, coffee, watercolours and sand but for now I'm happy with getting the bold and beautiful oil pastels out and use charcoal to give some definition.
Why is Spring so inspiring?
The warmer weather and longer days inspire people to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, which can lead to new ideas and creativity.
The colours of spring are often very vibrant, which can inspire artists to create colourful paintings or sculptures.
The flowers that bloom in spring can be a source of inspiration for artists, as they are often very beautiful and fragrant.
Spring is a time of new beginnings, which can inspire artists to start new projects or try new techniques.
The animals that come out in springtime can also be a source of inspiration for artists, as they are often very active and playful.
The sound of birds singing in the morning can be a peaceful and inspiring way to start the day.
The feeling of warm sun on your skin after a long winter can be very inspiring.
Spring is a time when nature comes back to life after a long winter, which can be very inspiring for artists who appreciate the cycle of life.
Spring is a time of hope and renewal, which can inspire artists to create art that reflects these positive emotions
No matter which materials you choose to use, mixed media art is a great way to explore your creativity as well as document the changes that take place each spring. With its mix of colours, textures and mediums, you can create unique artwork that celebrates the beauty of the season. Let your creativity blossom as you capture spring in a mixed media masterpiece!
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