How to Create Geometric Foil Art: Integrating Maths and Science into Mixed Media

How-To Guides

Elevate your creative practice with our Geometric Pigment & Foil Artwork project with the harmony of Art, Maths and Science.

In this project, you will explore the intersection of precision, physics and creativity. You’ll apply mathematical principles like geometry, symmetry and proportion to ensure accurate measurements and balanced angles. On the scientific side, the guide covers the properties of resistant materials and the mechanics of fluid dynamics, specifically how capillary action, absorption and diffusion affect your work. Finally, you’ll bring these technical elements to life through artistic techniques, mastering colour theory, gradients and mixed media composition to create a visually striking finished piece.

Step by step - Let's Create

Construct the Geometric Design:

Using a compass and set square, lightly draw a geometric pattern in pencil.
Focus on:
• Accurate measurement
• Clean angles
• Symmetry and proportion
This stage directly links to maths through precision and spatial reasoning.

Reduce Pencil Visibility:

Gently erase over the drawing so the lines remain visible but faint. This prevents pencil marks showing through later layers.

Create a Resist:

Trace over the entire geometric design using a white oil pastel.

Science link:
• Oil-based materials repel water-based pigments due to their different chemical properties. This creates a resist that will protect the geometric lines.

Apply Pigment Powders:

Sprinkle pigment powders across the paper in complementary colours.
Aim for a controlled gradient, for example:
• Green-blue transitioning into purple-blue
• Accents of red or pink
This stage explores colour theory and controlled blending.

Activate with Water:

Add water carefully so the pigment dissolves and spreads across the surface.
Science link:
• Diffusion: pigment particles move through water
• Capillary action: water carries pigment through the paper fibres
Encourage observation of how colour travels and blends naturally.

Add Salt for Texture:

While the paper is still wet, sprinkle salt over selected areas.
Science link:
Salt absorbs water, pulling pigment towards it and creating textured patterns.
This demonstrates how physical processes affect materials.

Dry Completely:

Allow the artwork to dry fully, ideally overnight. This is essential before moving on to the next stage.

Apply 3D Glue to Geometric Shapes:

Once dry, carefully trace over the oil pastel lines with 3D glue.
This stage requires:
• Precision
• Steady control
• Planning the surface carefully

Dry the Glue until Clear:

The glue must be completely clear before adding foil.
A hair dryer can be used to speed this up (with appropriate supervision).

Apply Transfer Foil:

Press the transfer foil onto the dried glue, then dab and pull away quickly.
• The foil will only stick where adhesive is present
• You can repeat the process, layering foil until areas are fully covered
Science link:
This reinforces the idea of material-specific reactions.

Outcome and Learning Focus:
This project combines:
• Mathematical precision
• Scientific experimentation
• Creative decision-making
It can be easily adapted for different age groups and encourages students to think both analytically and creatively.