About this class

This class will be focusing on how to create a piece of artwork combining gouache and collage.

Gouache is a fantastic medium that combines well with other things, its very versatile and in this series, I’ve created called The Gouache Files I aim to show this in different ways.

In this class we are aiming to use Acrylic Gouache and mix it with Collage art, I will also be showing you how to make Decorative papers to collage with.

We will start by discussing materials and what I like to use, then we will move onto how I create decorative collage paper using various different techniques and then I’ll share with you how I find inspiration from other artists and books etc. I’ll also give you my unique way of using objects that I love as subject matter plus how I make a colour plan. Then we will jump into composition layout and then make the final artwork.

This class with cover:

The materials and tools you will need
Techniques for creating your own decorative collage paper
Inspiration advice
Exercises combining collage and paint
My tips on creating a colour plan
Subject matter and layout ideas
The joy of semi abstract art using an instinctive approach
A bonus lesson in how to turn this art into a personal greeting card

I’ll talk you through the materials and tools I use in the class and how to approach doing the class project using basic stuff that you may already have.

I’ll give you lots of ideas on how to create unique papers to use for collage as well as any other creative projects you make. We will use some interesting tools such as a Gelli plate, as well as making papers using basic paint and tools you find around the home.

Inspiration is always key so I feel its important to share with you where I find mine and how you can start to build up a reference of ideas to use in your artwork. We will also look at colour planning and how to turn reference photos of subject matter into your own designs to create a semi abstract picture inspired by pattern.

The paint and collage exercises are great fun to do (quite addictive actually) so I will encourage you to makes lots as this will get you in the right creative zone for making the final artwork.

I will also show you how I use these exercise ideas to inspire card creation and you’ll see this in the bonus lesson right at the end of the class.

This class is suitable for everyone, from beginner to experienced artist as it’s a fun and different approach to a combination of mediums which results in producing an amazing piece of mixed media artwork.

This class is for you if you:

Have used one or all of the mediums but have never thought to combine them.
Love using mixed media and want to do more.
Like the idea of using objects with pattern as inspiration
Want to try a semi abstract approach to art.
If you just love experimenting!

So follow me on my gouache journey as I investigate this wonderful medium and the end of the class you’ll have:

A much better idea of how to use acrylic gouache.
Lots of technique ideas for making collage papers
Confidence with mixing these two mediums.
A good idea of where to look for inspiration, subject matter and colour.
Some mixed media exercises you can use for making artwork and also create greeting cards.

Class materials:

Gouache used-

Liquitex Professional acrylic gouache in white, Paynes Grey, Prism violet, cerulean blue, cadmium free orange, vivid lime green and primary yellow. You could also use medium bodied acrylic paint or standard water-based gouache.