About This Class 

In this class we will be exploring mixed-media illustration in Procreate even more. We start by creating an interesting background in much the same way as you would do it in an art journal. We build it up, layer by layer, adding plenty of texture and interest. I show you many examples of work that I have been doing so you can begin to understand the outcomes. I add many different details like ephemera I have created or purchased. Throughout, I show you methods for creating depth with shadows. 

Another objective I had was in showing you how to make all sorts of adjustments, so there are many, many examples and walk-throughs of doing just that. We adjust things like hue and saturation, blending modes, and I show you tips and tricks with filters like liquefy and gradient map. With gradient map I show you how to remove color from an original watercolour to make a cool background.

On the list of outcomes, I also include the skill of knowing when to use clipping masks and alpha lock to add details, and why these are so useful. Adding a certain amount of grunge is truly what makes mixed media art so satisfying and making and alpha lock make it so very easy.

The last couple of lessons focus on fine-tuning and adding the little details that truly make this a traditional mixed-media piece. The last lesson shows a bunch of time-lapses (with narration, of course), that show all of the steps we went through in class in the several documents I worked on. It is really revealing!

This is one of 5 classes in a series of classes in which I teach you all about mixed media and negative space painting techniques. I recommend that you take the time to work through all the classes if you are serious about mixed media. You will learn all there is to learn about making ephemera and texture brushes and working with these shapes, textures and finishes. Each class offers a different perspective. The other classes in the series are:

• Ephemera to Make Brushes for Mixed Media Art in Procreate
• Clone Tool for Constructing Seamless Repeat Patterns in Procreate
• Serene Forest Watercolour Negative Space in Procreate
• Jungle Fever Advanced Layering & Brush Methods in Procreate

In this class I’ll walk you through:

• creating a mixed media background
• adding ephemera including sourcing and importing
• adding painted details and outlines
• tips for creating compositions for a varied and appealing layout using the background brushes

If you’re an eager mixed media artist hoping to switch to digital, and you have a good basic knowledge of Procreate, you’ll be able to go through all the steps. This class will benefit anyone who is looking for attainable processes to spice up any layout or background.

The key concepts I will include:

·       brush alterations and adjustments

·       working with negative space

·       layering to create interesting negative space techniques

·       approaches you can take in your creative work

This is an ideal class for you, even if you are not sure what you whether mixed media art is your thing. Many of these techniques are totally transferable to any art you produce. I guarantee you will create something really appealing, and it’s so much fun once you get the hang of it!

Project Description:

Today’s challenge is to create a mixed media illustration using the techniques suggested in class. I have provided you with several brush sets you can use to accomplish this. I have included the fern and leaf brushes you can use for your initial silhouette, or you can just paint one freehand using something like a monoline brush. I have included a paper textures document that measures approximately 8x10 at 244 ppi. This has a built in watercolour texture and a few overlays which will react to whatever you paint on layers beneath it. The textures have blending modes pre-set, and you can experiment with those or with changing to another mode. Once you import the paper into your gallery, I suggest you duplicate it for use, therefore saving you the trouble of uploading it again for next time. Try to create at least one brush, and experiment!

Once complete, try using it on a mock-up and navigate to the community by hitting the community icon (double word balloon) at lower right to post your project to share with your classmates.