THE ESSENTIALS
Mixed Media Essentials

Master Innovative Techniques in Mixed Media Art Using Inks and Collages

Learn professional approaches from Dimitra and Elli Milan as they share their detailed techniques in mixed media art. Elli specializes in creating Abstract Realism collages whereas Dimitra uses watercolor and ink to elevate traditional art.

Get instant lifetime access for only $180
Mixed Media Essentials Course

What You Will Learn

  • How to amp up your artwork’s colors and bring your subject to life

  • How to design a composition that catches the eye

  • How to start with an abstract underpainting using inks and then layer with acrylic washes and add depth with opaque layers

  • How to finish a painting with detailed touches in opaque oil, making your piece stand out

product Mixed Media Essentials
Together, these courses teach processes not found in any other mixed media courses. In just six video lessons, you’ll finish two paintings and build confidence to help you create mind-blowing art! Check out Mixed Media Essentials to find unique ways to make your artwork stand out—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist.
ELLI with DIMITRA

Course Structure

Mixed media horse
Elli showing tools for mixed media painting
Mixed media horse closeup
Mixed Media Essentials

SECTION 1: Mixed Media Collage

Section 1 of this course introduces you to Elli Milan’s Abstract Realism style, developed through decades of artistic practice. Get hands-on with her mixed media collage method, beginning with layering collage papers and textures. You’ll transition to painting with acrylics before finishing up with oil paints.

Dimitra showing tools for mixed media ink
Mixed media ink closeup
Mixed media portrait with ink
Mixed Media Essentials

SECTION 2: Mixed Media Ink

In Section 2, you’ll use water and inks to create a stunning painting with Dimitra Milan. She starts with tips on finding and creating source images so you’re empowered to paint anything you imagine. Discover how to layer ink, acrylic, and oil, adding profound depth and complexity to your pieces—especially portraits!

The lessons are all about 15 minutes long. They include 3 separate layers/steps, so you will complete each painting in about 3 to 6 hours total.

What You Get

  • 6 Immersive Video Lessons with Step-by-Step Instructions
  • FREE Reference Photos to Inspire Your Mixed Media Art
  • Downloadable PDF Workbook
  • Lifetime Access to Watch Anytime & Learn at Your Own Pace
  • Connect with Our Artist Community on the Milan Art App
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Meet Your Instructors

instructor elli Milan

Elli Milan

Founder, Instructor

As the founding owner of Milan Art Institute, Elli has been a professional artist since 1996. Elli sold more than 10,000 pieces of art throughout her thriving career. She has transformed the lives of thousands of artists from around the world—helping them find their voice and turn their love for art into a profession. She is passionate about the role of an artist in contemporary culture and is a leading voice of the current Art Renaissance.

instructor dimitra milan

Dimitra Milan

Professional Artist, Instructor

Dimitra generated over $1,000,000 in artwork sales by the age of 15. She is pioneering a new age of artist influencers on social media, spreading beauty across the entire planet. She is now a mentor and co-owner at Milan Art Institute—and passionate about equipping artists to change the world with their ideas.

What Artists Are Saying...

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Our Student's Work

Examples of our student's artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know this school is reputable?

Milan Art Institute teaches thousands of students from all over the world to become professional, full-time artists. The Milans are internationally established artists who have been selling their work for decades. Visit MAI Facebook page to read reviews from students and see their artwork and growth from the classes at MAI.

I have no experience with mixed media. Are these videos for me?

Yes! Our painting techniques are broken down into easy-to-follow steps. By the end of these three lessons, you’ll have a beautiful and unique painting.

I have been painting for years, are these classes too basic?

These classes are taught by globally recognized artists and are technique-driven. The methods are unique and innovative, but also derived from classical training from the old masters. Elli and Dimitra teach a revolutionary color theory process with color temperature to give you greater depth in your paintings than you’ve experienced ever before.

What supplies will I need?
  • Acrylic inks
  • Soft small, medium, & large brushes
  • Drawing materials (graphite, acrylic markers, permanent markers)
  • Canvas
  • Various collage papers like newspaper or other decorative papers
  • Gloss gel, modeling paste
  • Various acrylic colors: opaque & transparent
  • Variety of oil paints: opaque & transparent
  • Glazing medium (Galkyd or Liquin)
  • Thinner for cleaning oil brushes

Video descriptions include detailed lists of materials you’ll need to complete each section of the course.

What do I do if I don’t have enough art supplies?

You may not need every supply listed, but they’re commonly found at art supply stores. You can also purchase complete kits curated by Elli and Dimitra directly from the Milan Art store.

I don’t have too much time now. Can I access the information later?

When you register for the course, you receive lifetime access to it. This means you can watch the videos at any time and learn on any device, at your own pace.

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About Milan Art Institute

Shine Your Art.
Change The World.

Milan Art Institute brings passionate hearts and creative minds together to actualize creative visions. The founders, John and Elli Milan, have been working as successful collaborative artists for over 25 years and have made a living during that entire period solely through art.

Their daughter, Dimitra Milan, became a professional artist and, before turning 16, had generated over a million dollars through the sales of her artwork. The family’s works are featured in galleries around the world. And now, the Milans are sharing their insights about the art industry with everyone through their comprehensive online painting and drawing school.

Beginners and professionals come to master skills, learn new techniques, and join an ever-expanding community of artists. The purpose of the Milan Art Institute is to enlighten and educate a worldwide audience about the transformational power of the visual arts.