# Excited to Finish the Amazing Mixed Media Artwork

- Link: https://www.reekersart.com/excited-to-finish-the-amazing-mixed-media-artwork/
- Published: 2025-07-20T23:55:00+00:00
- Author: reekersart

With this post, I conclude my _Goyomatsu White Pine_ mixed media series—a journey
that began with a simple concept and evolved into a deeply layered artwork integrating
pastel, monoprinting, kanji, and now, final mounting and presentation.

In **Part 11**, I take you through the final, critical steps that prepare the artwork
for display:

 * I begin by revisiting the **wood panel** I constructed in a previous tutorial.(
   If you missed it, you can [watch it here](https://youtu.be/jgSymyaa25I?si=LobOpA6dq5gqOBLz)).
 * Using **Liquitex Gloss Medium** and a **cheap bristle brush**, I apply adhesive
   to both the panel and the back of the artwork.
 * I carefully center the artwork on the panel and use a **brayer** to secure it,
   eliminating bubbles and making sure the corners are properly glued.
 * After placing **acetate and a masonite board** on top, I let it sit under weight
   for a full day.
 * Once dry, I remove the cover and **trim the edges** with a carpet blade for a
   clean, professional finish.

The final touch is framing. I built a **floating frame** based on [Michael Alm’s YouTube tutorial](https://youtu.be/NjksWMuLGvY?si=CxWREzR8YIY3gjx0),
then dry-fitted, shimmed, and **secured the panel with wood screws**. I sign the
back of the artwork—preserving the image itself—and add a **hanging wire** to complete
the piece. In some cases, I add a backing paper as well.

This step not only protects and stabilizes the work but gives it a polished presence—
ready for the wall or gallery.

### **Reflecting on the Series**

This 11-part series has been an exploration of concept, craft, and process. From
the initial composition to drawing, pastel, printing, layering, painting, and now
final mounting, each step was intentional and deeply connected to the soul of the
subject—**the Goyomatsu (White Pine) bonsai**.

My hope is that this series offered both insight and inspiration, whether you’re
a practicing artist, bonsai enthusiast, or curious observer. Creating something 
from the ground up—from sketch to frame—is both humbling and energizing.

### **Thank You**

Thank you for walking through this entire creative process with me. If you’ve been
following the series, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Has it inspired your own creative
journey? What parts resonated with you most?

You can watch the final video on YouTube here:
👉 [Watch Part 11 – Mounting and Framing](https://www.reekersart.com/)

And if you’d like to support my work or explore available artwork, please visit:

🌐 [reekers.local/](http://www.reekersart.com/)

🎨 **Become a Patron:** [patreon.com/ronreekers](https://www.patreon.com/ronreekers)

I also share process videos and upcoming projects on Instagram [@ronreekers](https://www.instagram.com/ronreekers/).
Let’s stay connected.

Until next time, keep creating and appreciating the beauty of the process.

— **Ron Reekers**