(This story is an archive, refer to following byline for author's name)
By Aimee Monnett
What is alternative style art? Alternative style art is any art category considered to be outside of the norm- this can include anything from abstract to a stylistically gothic seeming piece. Because it’s such a broad category, there are a plethora of things young artists can try out! Furthermore, art can be extremely therapeutic to those looking for a creative outlet! In this column, we’ll be compiling artistic ideas and examples within the alternative category you may like to try!
Firstly, an art wall! It doesn’t have to be specifically alternative, as any art can be made into an art wall! However, an art wall is one of the easiest ways to personalize a room in a stylistic manner! Furthermore, an art wall can be anything you’d like- be that your art, or labels from recycled goods.
Recycled goods can also be used for an alternative style room! By way of illustration, monster or other energy drink cans. Or really any cans in general. They can be used for crafts such as small pots for plants such as succulents, the construction of artistic structures, or the previously mentioned addition of labels from the cans to your art wall!
Journaling! Now, this is not directly an alternative style craft, but it definitely can be - depending on what you decide to use it for! Journals can be used for anything from scrap-booking to flower pressing. It can be really challenging to find flowers and identify them within your area, but it’s just a really neat indie activity you can hold on to.
Another alternative craft you may consider is upcycling old clothing. If you have some old, ripped jeans or a shirt, why not experiment with it, rather than get rid of it? You can etch cool designs into the fabric using bleach (taking proper safety precautions of course) if you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, or just simply DIY a pair of ripped jeans!
Abstract painting! This is one that may be a lot of fun for those who just like to dabble in art occasionally, or love art but struggle to make a “professional-looking” piece. There are many techniques of painting that don’t really require a detail-oriented approach and can be purely for fun- such as drip paintings, spin paintings, splatter paintings, etc. Of course, if you would like something more specifically alternative or detail-oriented, you definitely can try for more stylized pieces!
Leatherwork! Now, this is not something beginners generally get into very much because it tends to be a rather complex and pricey craft at times, but it definitely fits into an alternative style! You can craft pieces for general use, or perhaps for cosplay purposes. And although it is definitely a bit of a harder area to get into, there are a variety of resources and tutorials available, if you would really like to try it!
Finally, crafting jewelry. You can craft anything from a lace choker to a chain necklace, depending on your overall ability and perhaps passion for the craft, if you try it out! The purpose of this article is mainly to give some insight into stylized crafting perhaps not previously considered. There are many things you can do with the materials around you and a creative mindset!