Keep It Simple, Silly

Is there so much going on in your piece that it is making your head spin? Is it so busy that the focal point has disappeared? Did you fill your canvas without leaving space for that image transfer? It is probably time to simplify and add a place for your eye to rest.

TECHNIQUE ONE: Make Space

You have been diligently working on your mixed-media art and you now wish to add some elements to tell your visual tale, but the piece has become too busy. First select a mid to light tone or color from the piece; then, mix up some paint in that color and use it to stamp or scrape an area. Now you will have a simple quiet space to place your elements or transfers.

SAILING THROUGHAN EFFERVESCENT SEA

Darlene Olivia McElroy

TECHNIQUE TWO: Quiet it Down

Have you ever been in an Oriental garden? The Oriental garden relies as much on the empty space as it does on the natural elements. It is this quiet space that gives the garden such a strong impact. Every piece of art needs a place of rest or a Zen moment or two to balance out the busy side. Take a step back and look at your piece. Hold your thumb out in front of your face. Look at the art and let your thumb block a portion of the piece to find where your Zen spot should go. Does the piece work just as well without this area? Paint into the area to quiet it down. You might also collage some element—like joss paper or book pages—over a busy area.

TECHNIQUE THREE: Wash It

Add a diluted layer of white or tinted paint or gesso over a busy passage. You will be able to see what is in the background but it will be calmly unified by the color.