The 2020s are revealing an increased interest in various styles of art, and this is especially true for mixed-media art. This heightened awareness is demonstrated by the museums and galleries that curate mixed-media collections and exhibitions, as well as by the actions of art lovers, communities and collectors.
What Is Mixed-Media Art?
Simply defined, mixed-media art includes artworks designed, created and formed using multiple styles, materials and textures. It can combine wet and dry techniques and two- and three-dimensional forms. Mixed-media art includes found items—coins, fabrics, plastics, jewelry and on and on—and can be composed of traditional and digital art. Mixed-media is an ancient and a contemporary technique.
Throughout history, ancient African and Asian cultures possess examples of this style, but as a movement, mixed-media art began to stand out in the early 1910s. Using art forms like painting and drawing and mixing them in one piece with other formats like photography, sculpture (and even handcrafts like crochet, sewing or metalwork) can bring about brilliant creations.
You may know that mixed-media arts weren’t always well-received. When artists start something new, it often takes time for others to perceive the vision. As time passes, appreciation for the creativity expands, and people may even begin to see the benefit of investing in the newer art form.
Why Is Mixed-Media Art Popular?
Again, was not initially popular when it first came on the scene in the early 1900s. Yet over time it broke through to capture the interest of those who appreciate art. Mixed-media art is loved for a variety of reasons.
Artists may employ mixed-media as it broadens the path to art, and expands the ways artists can tell their stories. It can give them more freedom of expression as it often removes the limitations associated with one material and technique.
The possibilities that come with layering and texture give artists more avenues to engage with their communities and the greater world around them. It provides a way to explore themes outside the lines, lines that exist even in the world of art. Mixed-media art is experimental, it is bold, and it’s fun! And its malleable nature means it can be used to discuss multifaceted, difficult topics too.
Mixed-media art is gaining popularity in the realm of curators and collectors. A few reasons for this activity are listed below.
- Curators appreciate how it expands opportunities for minority artists to gain wider exposure. Culture often brings captivating power to an artist’s work.
- There is great value placed on mixed-media art for its originality. Working with multiple materials allows new meanings to flow and create unique works.
- Currently this style of art is also growing in the luxury sector. Collectors are seeing impressive returns on their investments as these pieces continue to grow in value.
To understand the power and pull of mixed-media art for yourself, plan to visit an art exhibition at your local museum or gallery. It’s a great outing for people of all ages and backgrounds, and it presents opportunities to learn and see life with a refreshed vision.
See Local Mixed-Media Artists at a Beaverton Gallery
Visiting and buying from local art galleries is a great way to support Beaverton’s mixed-media and other artists, as well as creators throughout the Pacific Northwest. Grey Raven Gallery is your hub to connect with the arts community and support free online art lessons for children. Come see us in person or shop our online gallery.
