Creating an Mixed Media Raven Painting on an Old Floorboard with Artist M. Cromwell

Miranda Cromwell, known on TikTok as @marandart, is an artist that enjoys exploring different mixed media techniques. In one of her recent videos, she decided to transform an old piece of floorboard into a piece of art by painting a raven onto its surface. Let's take a deeper look at her creative process.

Planning and Sketching

Cromwell had previously tried painting a stencil onto the floorboard that didn't turn out well, so she covered it up with paint to start fresh. Before diving in, she used her sketchbook to brainstorm different ideas and warm up her drawing skills. Sketching is an important part of her process to feel more confident in her final artwork. Some ideas she toyed with included birds, insects, and abstract shapes.

Taping and Layering Color

After settling on a raven design, Cromwell applied tape to the board to create well-defined edges for the figure. She also added acrylic medium underneath the tape to prevent paint from bleeding underneath. Then she dry brushed background colors like grays and blacks before removing the tape to reveal the raven shape.

Adding Details

To bring more depth and realism to her raven, Cromwell incorporated colored pencils and paint. At one point she jokes that she made a "terrible mistake" by applying varnish, but was just kidding to add humor. Overall she was quite pleased with how the final piece turned out.

TAGs: raven, arttok, artprocess, artistsoftiktok

Cromwell's video provides inspiration for those interested in mixed media art forms. By experimenting with different surfaces, materials, and layering techniques, unique artwork can be created. Be sure to check out her TikTok @marandart to see more of her creative process in action.

FAQs

Q: What type of tape did Cromwell use to mask off the raven shape?

A: The video doesn't specify the exact type, but it appeared to be a low-tack painter's tape suitable for delicate surfaces.

Q: How long did it take her to complete this piece?

A: The time wasn't stated, but based on the various steps shown it likely took several hours over multiple sessions to plan, sketch, paint and add details.

Q: Where can I find more examples of her mixed media artwork?

A: You can check out Cromwell's TikTok profile @marandart to view her other creative projects using a variety of materials like flooring, canvas, paper and more.

Q: What supplies would someone need to recreate a similar painting?

A: Basic supplies would include an art surface like wood or flooring, acrylic paints, colored pencils, paint brushes, tape, varnish and a sketchbook for planning.

Q: How can starting with sketching help improve artwork?

A: Sketching helps artists work through ideas, practice techniques, and feel more confident in their final compositions before committing to a larger piece. It's an important part of the creative process.