Thank you for joining us at Golden Road Arts for another lesson exploring how art can help a child’s development. Today, we’re focusing on the benefits of mixed media art and how to develop projects for the home or classroom. The challenges and techniques involved in mixed media projects help kids express themselves while expanding their creative skills. Here are some of our favorite projects, and how they can help young students.
How to Create a Mixed Media Art Project for Kids
Mixed media art is a type of art incorporating multiple materials or techniques in one piece. Kids often enjoy working on mixed media projects, as it allows for experimentation with different colors, textures and composition.
There are certainly many ways to get started with mixed media art, but it can be useful for kids to begin with a simple foundation. Start with a base (such as canvas or cardstock) and gather materials like old magazines, newspapers, scraps of fabric, paint, leaves, twigs, bottle caps, glitter, glue and other accessible art supplies. Children can then observe some examples of the method, such as our mixed media painting lesson with Carolyn Pettitt, to familiarize themselves with the style.
Mixed Media Art Ideas for Children
Mixed media allows for experimentation and self-expression. Starting with a concept or project plan is a great way to give some direction without inhibiting a child’s creative instincts.
Nature Collage
A nature collage combines natural materials like leaves, flowers and pebbles with paint, paper or cardboard. Searching for materials is an essential part of the process, and can bring children a new perspective on the natural world around them. Kids develop their composition skills by placing materials on the paper and adding paint to the work.
Salt and Watercolor Textured Art
Combining salt and watercolor paint is a fun exercise for kids of all ages. When sprinkled onto wet watercolor paint, the salt absorbs water and pigment to create unique patterns and textures. Children can learn the importance of texture and gradient, encouraging them to observe and think about how mixing materials can change their appearance.
Mixed Media Self-Portrait
Drawing or painting a self-portrait is a common art project for young children. And further, adapting the project for a mixed media piece encourages children to become more creative. Incorporating buttons, bits of fabric and other materials into a portrait transforms a simple painting into a tactile artwork.
Mixed Media Abstract Work
Mixed media is ideally suited for abstract art. Whether kids are creating art in the classroom or at home, they can use their imagination to create visually impressive paintings that integrate magazine cuttings, glitter, paint, markers and other materials.
Discover Mixed Media Art Projects for Children
Golden Road Arts creates engaging art tutorials for elementary and middle school children. Get started with mixed media art projects and other creative techniques by browsing our collection of art guides. Watch free art lessons now.
