work in painting, drawing, assemblage/collage, printmaking or mixed media

1️⃣ Overview of Painting & Related Media

In this unit you’ll explore how to create art using painting, drawing, assemblage/collage, printmaking, and mixed media. Each medium has its own set of tools, techniques, and creative possibilities.

2️⃣ Painting Techniques

• 🖌️ Oil – Think of it as a slow‑moving river; you can blend colors over days.
• 🎨 Acrylic – Fast‑drying like a quick‑sand; great for bold layers.
• 🌊 Watercolour – Transparent, like a light drizzle; layers build depth.
• 🖍️ Gouache – Opaque and matte, similar to a thick paint‑brush stroke.
• 🖋️ Pastel – Powdery, like a soft snow; excellent for vibrant, textured surfaces.

3️⃣ Drawing Techniques

Drawing is the foundation of all visual art. Practice:

1. 🗺️ Sketching – Quick outlines to capture form.
2. 📐 Shading – Use hatching and cross‑hatching to create volume.
3. 🔍 Perspective – One‑point, two‑point, and atmospheric perspective to add depth.
4. 🖊️ Line quality – Vary pressure to produce thick and thin lines.

4️⃣ Assemblage & Collage

Assemblage is like building a LEGO set with real objects, while collage is a scrapbook of images. Tips:

• 🧩 Choose a theme – Keeps the piece cohesive.
• 📚 Layering – Add depth by overlapping materials.
• 🖼️ Texture contrast – Combine smooth paper with rough cardboard.

5️⃣ Printmaking

Printmaking lets you create multiple copies of a single design. Common methods:

1. 🖨️ Linocut – Carve a design into linoleum; ink it and press onto paper.
2. 🖋️ Etching – Use acid to bite into metal plates.
3. 🖌️ Screen‑printing – Push ink through a stencil onto fabric or paper.

6️⃣ Mixed Media

Mixing media is like cooking a fusion dish – each ingredient adds flavor. Experiment with:

• 🖌️ Paint + collage – Layer acrylic over torn paper.
• 🧵 Textiles + drawing – Sketch on fabric before dyeing.
• 📦 Found objects + print – Combine prints with everyday items.

7️⃣ Examination Tips

📚 Show your process – Include sketches, colour studies, and notes.

🖼️ Explain your choices – Why did you pick this medium? How does it support your idea?

🗂️ Organise your portfolio – Group works by medium, theme, or technique.

⚖️ Balance composition – Use the rule of thirds or golden ratio to guide placement.

⏱️ Time management – Allocate time for planning, execution, and finishing touches.