So what are mixed media art classes?

Since I offer art classes in mixed media in west Los Angeles, I am often asked what exactly mixed media is. Basically, mixed media is an artwork in which more than one medium has been used. So if you combine acrylics with charcoal, that is a mixed media piece. However, mixed media art, a visual art, is distinguished from multimedia art which combines visual art with non-visual elements, such as recorded sound, literature, drama, dance, motion graphics, music, or interactivity (wiki). My art classes for adults specialize in a mixture of techniques as well as various mediums. More than one technique alone of course does not constitute a mixed media piece. Mixing up collage, acrylic and drawing materials, is what I have found to be really effective in my art classes for adults, always encouraging a lot of experimenting and layering. It is easy to add all sorts of gimicky materials to the process. I try to stay away from them and encourage my art students to not get caught up with purchasing expensive online tools that are marketed as mixed media "necessities". Start simply and try to resist being seduced by the new materials. If you want a taste of my process of teaching, I invite you to join one of my monthly workshops to experience the liberating art process with mixed media. http://bit.ly/workshops_retreats