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      Mixed media materials and techniques

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can combine different materials and techniques to create a mixed media artwork.

      Key learning points

      1. Combining different materials and techniques can allow artists to convey complex ideas and emotions.
      2. Mixing media creates interesting textures and dimensions that can enhance the visual and tactile experience of a piece.
      3. Artists can break away from traditional boundaries by experimenting with unconventional combinations.

      Keywords

      • Mixed media - the use of two or more artistic materials or techniques in a single artwork

      • Actual texture - texture that can be physically felt (e.g., rough, bumpy, soft)

      • Implied texture - the illusion of texture created using techniques like shading, pattern, or collage

      Common misconception

      Mixed media just means using any random materials together, it doesn’t really matter what you choose.

      Mixed media is intentional. Each material or technique is chosen for a reason, either to add texture, create contrast, or express an idea or emotion. Artists think carefully about how the materials work together to enhance the artwork.

      Teacher tip

      Greater contextual information on the artists' work can be found in the additional materials. You may wish to alter the imagery to better fit your project themes.

      Equipment

      Paper/card, acrylics, watercolours, ink, oil pastels, charcoal, collage elements, glue, tape, brushes, sponges, palette knives, fabric, string, scissors, hair dryer.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What does the term composition refer to in art?

      The colour of the background
      Correct answer: How elements are arranged
      The mood of the artwork
      The type of paint used

      Q2.
      A is the group of colours you choose for your artwork.

      Correct Answer: colour palette, palette, colour scheme, colour selection

      Q3.
      Match the keyword to its correct meaning.

      Correct Answer:Combine,To bring different elements together
      Correct Answer:Subject,The main focus or topic in the artwork
      Correct Answer:Experimental,Exploring new and unusual methods

      Q4.
      Which of these best describes implied texture in art?

      A type of brush
      Texture made from fabric
      Correct answer: Texture that looks real but is flat
      Texture you can touch

      Q5.
      In a portrait, the person who is painted is called the ...

      Correct Answer: subject, model, sitter, figure

      Q6.
      Which phrase best describes mixed media artwork?

      Correct answer: Artwork combining several materials
      Artwork dawn only with pencils
      Artwork made entirely of photography
      Artwork created using only watercolours

      To help you plan your 10 art and design lesson on: Mixed media materials and techniques, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...