Mixed media artists find themselves accumulating a lot of interesting and unusual art supplies. This includes an abundance of beads. Let's paint!
For some reason, mixed media artists end up with a plethora of art supplies that have little to do with their interests. For example, they may have never created a piece of jewelry in their life, yet they have jars filled with beads. Why? Is it because they're experts in the field of mixed media? Probably, but it's more likely because they find some great beads (or received them in a swap of some sort) and added them to their "this could be used for something someday" stash.
Let's look at how beads of different shapes and sizes can be used in a mixed media painting. The actual design and theme of the painting doesn't have to do have anything at all to do with beads, beading or jewelry. However, beads can be brought in to add texture, embellish certain areas of the painting, and to add sparkle where glitter or mica just won't achieve the same look.
Seed beads can be the most tricky to work with, but they can create a really beautiful effect. What's great about these is the staying power because they're so small. Simply attach the beads directly into acrylic paint or gel medium using tweezers. Seal the piece with gloss medium or shellac and these little bits won't go anywhere (unless the piece undergoes some heavy abuse or isn't transported properly, of course).
If this is a kid's craft project, white glue and chunky beads will work great. For example, there are a lot of different jewelry making kits available that come with a little bit of cording, but a lot of beads are usually left over. They come in very vibrant colors and whimsical shapes. Use blobs of white glue or rubber cement to stick these babies on to artwork created with children. This will give them a great lesson in texture, color, movement, recycling and style.
Another idea is to stitch the beads directly into the stretched canvas. If the surface has been manipulated with a variety of paints, glues and other weighty embellishments, this might not be a workable option. However, if the surface has only been painted, stitching beads in to highlight areas of the painting, embellish areas of the painting, or to outline the text that may have been added can be achieved. It'll take time, a very sharp needle, and strong floss (waxed dental floss works extremely well). So, be patient with this process!
