My adult class got messy with mixed-media collage paintings inspired by contemporary painter and collage artist Jane Davies. See her fun and inspiring tutorials on Youtube.
We used paper (book paper, sheet music, maps, and mathematical graphs) to build up our collaged background, then began building on layers of paint in neutrals and warm colors. Using rollers, sponges, stamps and textures of all kinds we lifted, printed, stamped and layered paint, pushing some painted areas into the background while emphasizing other areas. Delicate squiggles, bold circles, poetic stencils, and a pop of turquoise were added to bring our collage into focus, and giving it an interest point. This was all about striking a balance of line and color, and directing the eye to our focal point. Balance, harmony and emphasis were our goals. Tough lesson but such fun!