Mixed Media Arts

» Jennifer Hollowell - Metal boxes

I'm going to add this one to my Christmas list.

» upsidedownsarah - Acrylic Revolution

You might want to check it out of your library (or through interlibrary loan) to make sure it is something you really want. I do that sort of thing a lot to make sure it's a book I will use long-term. The other thing I do is go to Borders or Barnes and Noble and look through the book (while enjoying a cup of coffee). This is my favorite way to review all the newest publications in mixed media and fine art. It is relaxing and fun. It helps me be selective about how I spend my limited book and magazine budget.

-- posted by upsidedownsarah

» Jennifer Hollowell - Acrylic Revolution

That's an excellent point - I'll be in those stores in the coming weeks to perform market research for a book I'm working on now. So, I'll check out that title while I'm there!

» upsidedownsarah - Another Must-Have

Here's something else that's absolutely essential--but often overlooked. Full-spectrum task lighting. I like Ott Lights. I have a desk size for my colored pencil work area and a freestanding floor lamp for my mixed media work area. Well worth the money for color accuracy and detail visibility. The added benefit is that full spectrum lighting is good for your mood, just like sunlight. It is commonly used by people who have Seasonal Affect Disorder (which I happen to have, although I bought the lights for the art primarily). If you have not tried it, you must--you will be amazed at the difference it makes.

-- posted by upsidedownsarah

» Jennifer Hollowell - Another Must-Have

My studio is still under construction, so I have terrible task lighting. Actually, I have no task lighting. LOL I have a flood light clamped to the rafters with a 100 watt bulb . . . it's terrible, but serving its purpose until everything's finished.

» upsidedownsarah - Another Must-Have

Wow....I can't imagine. Well, I'm telling you, as soon as possible you really need to get the right lighting because it makes a huge difference. There is no way you can accurately mix/match colors without it. I don't mean to sound bossy, but....

-- posted by upsidedownsarah

» Jennifer Hollowell - Another Must-Have

I need to get heat in there, too. LOL

» upsidedownsarah - Another Must-Have

I'm right there with you. My mixed media studio is not heated--it's a three-season porch (uninsulated). I keep the door closed except when I'm going to work out there; then I let the warm air in and turn on a space heater to speed things up a little. I have had to move all the liquid stuff into the next room (which is heated)to keep it from freezing. I have heard that freezing some kinds of paint will ruin them. It's really kinda inconvenient, but realistically, I'm so darn happy to have my own studio space that I am keeping it all in perspective.

So what kind of space do you have?

-- posted by upsidedownsarah

» Jennifer Hollowell - Another Must-Have

I ran into that problem with my acrylics - you're right, it's a pain. My space is a corner of the basement that's been framed up so far. Eventually, the entire basement will be refinished. In the meantime, I'll be happy with what I've got!

» upsidedownsarah - Acrylics and Freezing

So what happens to acrylics if you let them freeze?

-- posted by upsidedownsarah