Using India Ink in Art: Mixed Media, Visual Journal, Sketchbook Focused Class

With this visual journal, also called junk journals, mixed media art class, you will be introduced to six ways to use India ink in your visual journal. You can focus on using only India ink in your page or exploring a combination of paint and collage. A collage is a work of art created by bringing flat materials together and layering them, such as magazine images, photographs, text, pattern paper, and more. Through your visual journal, you will express yourself creatively while experimenting with art materials.  

Students will follow along with the instruction overview and demo video to learn the techniques they will be using that week. Following the step-by-step guide they will create a unique work of art in their visual journal. They can check their work to ensure they cover all techniques by going through the class checklist. 

Once students review the demo video and materials the homework portion of this class is for the student to apply the materials and techniques to their own visual journal. I anticipate it taking the student 1-3 hours to complete their visual journal page depending on how in-depth they go and what materials they are using. If students have any questions or want feedback I will respond within 24 hours during the week and within 48 hours over the weekend. 

This 1-week art class builds on my introduction to visual journals, ideas and inspiration for visual journals, and collaging tips classes. Students will take a used hardback book and create works of art on the pages. Through this class, I will walk students through six different ways to use India ink including creating a solid background, rubber cement resist pattern, creating a splatter pattern, writing in a calligraphy style, creating emphasis through an outline, and creating a wood pattern.  

This art class is ideal for middle and high-school-age students. When I taught high school art this was often my students' favorite project. It's a space for students to learn and experiment with new art materials and techniques while expressing themselves creatively. This art project is all about personal taste, style, and aesthetic. It's perfect for students wanting to test out a range of art styles and materials. 

One lesson is included in this pack. The lesson focuses on creating a successful work of art that incorporates India ink. Although students will only create one page, they will walk away with six techniques they can apply to future works of art.