Mixed media techniques ala Misty Mawn...

One of my favorite mixed media artists was recently featured in an issue of Cloth Paper Scissors for her unique and multi-layered background techniques. Misty Mawn, who in my opinion is one of the most creative and multi-talented young artists in the mixed media art world today, wrote a jam-packed, fact-filled article with step-by-step instructions for making what I consider some of the most spectacular backgrounds. I've been wanting to sit down and try her techniques for weeks, but I had to wrap up some of my own art class planning first -- otherwise, I feared that I would like doing it so much that I'd never stop to get my classes planned!! -- And I was right! Last night I just neglected house & home, and went to town making a Misty-inspired mixed media piece, and I have to say, I was in my element. I did not have all of the supplies on her list, so I had to improvise with what I had on-hand, but her combination of painting, stamping and image transfers-to name a few-result in a textural background with amazing depth. I cannot wait to do this again!!! The imagery that I chose to add to my background is very much like Misty's --except that she is a much better painter, and her pieces are more well developed than this first attempt. I didn't want to copy, but her themes really resonate with me - winged women, birds, butterflies, gateways and openings, so it was difficult for me to imagine another way to go for my first try... and imitation is the sincerest form of flattery! Thank you Misty, for your sharing your talents with us!