Reflection

Mixed media tends to refer to a work of visual art that combines various traditionally distinct visual art media. For example, a work on canvas that combines paint, ink, and collage could properly be called a "mixed media" work. When creating a painted or photographed work using mixed media it is important to choose the layers carefully and allow enough drying time between the layers to ensure the final work will have integrity. If many different media are used it is equally important to choose a sturdy foundation upon which the different layers are imposed. Many interesting effects can be achieved by using mixed media. Often, found objects are used in conjunction with traditional artist media, such as paints and graphite, to express a meaning in the everyday life. In this manner, many different elements of art become more flexible than with traditional artist media. Initially recognised for his multi-layer street stencils, Meggs has become a well recognised and respected member of Melbourne's street art culture. With a background of graffiti, skateboarding and graphic design Meggs has developed his painting skills from street to galleries with a mixture of aerosol based character work and stencil based expressive canvases. His work continually references the nostalgia of childhood heroes and villains, exploring the notion of duality and an on-going question of morals, rights and authorities. Reflecting on personal experience Meggs produces energetic depictions of heroes, villains, and subverted collages of pop culture symbols. Meggs has spread his street and gallery work as far as London, LA, Tokyo and Paris. A continued passion for graffiti and character painting, pop-art and abstract expressionism has led to Meggs being well recognised as one of Australia's pioneering street to gallery artists.