Painting

PAINT. PLAY. PROCESS.

What is Acrylic & Mixed Media Art?

Acrylic and mixed media painting is a vibrant and intuitive way to express yourself using colour, texture, and layering techniques. It combines the boldness of acrylic paint with the freedom to add collage, stamps, stencils, pencil, ink, fabric and more.

This flexible, no-rules approach makes it perfect for beginners, creatives in need of a reset, or anyone looking to explore the joy of making without pressure.

At Peace by Piece Art, we use painting and mixed media as a powerful creative wellbeing tool — one that invites mindfulness, expression, and reconnection through colour and play.

Why Painting for Wellbeing?

🎨 Emotional Expression: Put feelings into colour, shape, and form — no words needed.
🧠 Creative Flow: Painting encourages presence, reduces anxiety, and quiets the mind.
🖐️ Accessible Art: No experience required – just curiosity and a willingness to explore.
💛 Permission to Play: Embrace the process over the outcome – there are no mistakes here.

Workshop Method – Acrylic and Mixed Media Painting

Tools and materials:

Acrylic paints (range of colours)
A4 mixed media paper, canvas or canvas boards
Brushes, palette knives, sponges
Collage materials (paper, old books, fabric scraps)
Glue sticks or matte medium
Texture tools (bubble wrap, stencils, stamps)
Pens, pencils, oil pastels, charcoal
Water jars, palettes, aprons

Basic steps:

1. Base Layer
Start by applying washes of colour using large brushes or sponges and acrylic paint diluted with water. Don't overthink it – focus on movement and play.

2. Build Texture & Layers
Use a mix of brushstrokes, stencils, stamping, and collage. Let each layer dry (or use a hairdryer!) before continuing. Try:

Writing words then painting over them
Tearing paper or adding found textures
Scratching into wet paint

3. Add Details
Use fine brushes, pens, or oil pastels to add line work, symbols, or final highlights. This is your moment to follow instinct and refine your piece — or leave it abstract.

4. Reflect & Finish
There’s no “finished” look in this practice. Step back, take a breath, and decide when it feels complete for you.

Optional: give your artwork a name and add your signature.

🧘 Mindful painting practice:

Let the materials guide you. Take pauses. Breathe with each brushstroke.

Try this:
🎧 Paint to music and notice how your movements shift
🎨 Choose colours that reflect your current mood
💬 Write a short reflection or title for your piece afterwards

Each layer you add tells part of your story – visible or hidden.

Helpful Video Demonstrations

🎥 Basic Acrylic Painting Tips for Beginners
Watch on YouTube

🎥 Mixed Media for Beginners
Watch on YouTube

⚠️ Safety & Setup Tips

Cover surfaces with plastic or newspaper
Acrylic paint can stain clothes – aprons recommended
Ventilate the room if using glue, mediums, or sprays
Allow pieces to dry fully before transport or framing

Want to Share What You Made?

Tag us on Instagram @peacebypieceart or use the hashtag #PBPpainting to show your beautiful pieces and inspire others.

Peace By Piece - Painting Workshop Guide