Mixed media art involves mixing different creative mediums to create work that incorporates two or more art forms.

For example, if you paint with watercolors, then draw with ink, then add some highlights in colored pencil - that's mixed media!

Mixed media is all about breaking the boundaries between different art forms.

In this assignment you are going to do just that!

You are going to combine a very loose and free application of watercolors with very detailed and intricate pen-and-ink drawing.

If you want to add accents or a few details with another medium - feel free to do so. There are no limitations to the media you can use here!

Start with an idea!

Sketch it out so you cave a basic plan to what you are doing. Watercolors dry pretty fast, so you need to have a plan. If your plan changes later, or the painting itself takes over the creative process - that's fine too.

Tape a piece of watercolor paper to your drawing board.

Use a bug brush or a sponge to apply water onto it. Let the water soak in.

Start with light values.

Apply washes loosely and fast. Allow paint to bleed. Use a big round watercolor brush.

Continue painting.

If you feel like paint is drying out - you can use a fine mist spray-bottle to add more water.

Keep in mind that watercolors dry lighter than they appear.

Final few touches....

Be prepared that the edges of the things you paint are bleeded and not defined. This will be a great contrast to an intricate pen drawing that you are going to add next!

At this point it is very important to have a good sketch or a reference image before you start your pen drawing.

You cannot erase ink to hide your mistakes, just camouflage them.

You do not need to outline every single thing with the ink. You can define the shapes without outlining them. Think "edging"!!!

Use a variety of strokes and textures!

Unlike background painting, this is the step that you do not need to rush. Take your time to make your drawing detailed and interesting.

Feel free to add some implied texture or patterns. That will add some interest as well.

It is also OK to add some decorative details if you wish.

Use colored pencils, gel pens, or any other medium if that's what you want.

Most important - have fun with it!!!