The world of mixed media art offers a thrilling canvas for creative expression, where artists fuse diverse materials and techniques to forge visually captivating and emotionally resonant works. At the heart of this vibrant art form lies the art of composition – the skillful arrangement of visual elements that guides the viewer’s eye, evokes a desired mood, and elevates the overall impact of the piece.
Now, this might seem counterintuitive…
One of the most powerful yet underappreciated tools in the mixed media artist’s arsenal is the strategic use of framing. Far beyond a mere border, the frame can become an integral component of the artwork, shaping the composition, enhancing the narrative, and elevating the visual experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a range of innovative framing strategies that can breathe new life into your mixed media creations, empowering you to craft dynamic compositions that captivate and inspire.
Thinking Beyond the Rectangular Frame
While the classic rectangular frame remains a staple, mixed media artists are increasingly embracing unconventional framing approaches that push the boundaries of traditional composition. One such strategy is the use of asymmetrical or organic frames, which can lend a sense of movement and visual intrigue to the artwork.
Take, for example, the work of mixed media artist Ann Richman. In her piece “Bighorn Sheep on Wilcox Pass,” Richman utilizes an irregular, angular frame that echoes the rugged, jagged forms of the mountainous landscape, creating a sense of dynamic tension that draws the viewer’s eye deeper into the scene.
Similarly, Anton Gorlin emphasizes the importance of considering frame shape in photography composition, noting that the traditional rectangular format, while ubiquitous, is not the only viable option. Gorlin encourages experimentation with square, panoramic, and even asymmetrical frames, each of which can dramatically alter the visual impact and storytelling potential of the artwork.
Embracing Negative Space
In the realm of mixed media, the strategic use of negative space – the areas of the composition left unoccupied by visual elements – can be a powerful tool for creating dynamic compositions and guiding the viewer’s attention.
Rather than filling every inch of the frame, mixed media artists can leverage negative space to create a sense of balance, emphasize the focal point, and invite the viewer to engage more actively with the work. Randy Bottphotography highlights the importance of this concept, noting that “if it doesn’t add to the story, exclude it” – a principle that can be applied to both the subject matter and the framing of the artwork.
By thoughtfully incorporating areas of negative space, mixed media artists can create a sense of breathing room, allowing the viewer’s eye to rest and explore the composition more fully. This can be especially effective when paired with bold, contrasting elements that draw the viewer’s gaze to the focal point, creating a dynamic interplay between positive and negative space.
Layering and Modularity
Another innovative framing strategy in mixed media art is the embrace of layering and modular approaches, where the frame itself becomes a multidimensional element that adds depth, texture, and visual interest to the overall composition.
Gel Press, for example, highlights the use of Modge Podge, a versatile adhesive and sealant, in creating mixed media artworks with intricate, layered frames. By incorporating found objects, cut-outs, and various textures into the frame, artists can transform a simple border into an integral part of the artwork, blurring the line between the frame and the subject matter.
This modular approach to framing also allows for greater experimentation and customization, empowering artists to create frames that are truly one-of-a-kind and tailored to the specific needs of their mixed media compositions. Whether it’s incorporating a vintage photograph, embedding found objects, or playing with dimensional textures, the possibilities for layered and modular framing are endless.
Conceptual Framing
In the realm of mixed media art, the frame can also serve as a powerful conceptual tool, imbuing the artwork with deeper symbolism and narrative elements. By carefully considering the material, shape, and even the historical or cultural significance of the frame, artists can create a seamless integration between the physical border and the thematic or emotional content of the piece.
This approach is exemplified by the work of renowned mixed media artist Annette Klimesh, who often incorporates vintage and repurposed frames into her collages and assemblages. Klimesh’s frames not only enhance the visual appeal of her works but also serve as a means of conveying historical context, nostalgia, and personal narratives.
Similarly, Marlene Khalil utilizes found and handcrafted frames as integral components of her mixed media pieces, transforming them into vessels for storytelling and conceptual exploration. By carefully selecting and manipulating the frame, Khalil imbues her artwork with a sense of depth, mystery, and personal expression that transcends the physical boundaries of the composition.
Mastering the Fundamentals
While embracing innovative framing strategies is crucial in mixed media art, it’s important to also have a solid understanding of the foundational principles of composition. Techniques such as the rule of thirds, the use of diagonals and leading lines, and the strategic placement of focal points can all contribute to the creation of dynamic, visually compelling mixed media works.
Ann Richman delves into these fundamental compositional principles, providing a comprehensive overview of strategies like the golden ratio, the Baroque diagonal, and the use of odd numbers to create a sense of balance and visual interest. By combining these time-honored techniques with more experimental framing approaches, mixed media artists can craft compositions that are both aesthetically captivating and conceptually rich.
Unleashing Your Creative Potential
As you embark on your mixed media artistic journey, embrace the boundless potential of innovative framing strategies to elevate your compositions and captivate your audience. Whether you choose to experiment with unconventional shapes, incorporate negative space, or imbue your frames with conceptual significance, the key is to approach each piece with a spirit of curiosity, experimentation, and a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional art-making.
By harnessing the power of framing, you can transform your mixed media artworks into dynamic, visually arresting expressions of your creative vision – inviting viewers to engage with your work on deeper levels and leaving a lasting impact that transcends the physical confines of the frame.
Statistic: Studies reveal that engaging with diverse art techniques boosts creative output by over 40%