Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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Welcome back to the studio! Today, I’m participating in the January 2026 Nate’s Art Lab Colab Challenge.

youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0KXcghrBrZuu91eFsBMreFoPdf41-dJt&si=ZXrWX_dhnH036BSE

This month’s prompt requires a heart as part of the composition, and I’ve decided to tackle it using one of my favorite experimental techniques: the single pull collage.

In this video, I walk you through my entire process of building a layered composition directly on the gel plate and lifting it all in one single, satisfying pull. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned mixed media artist, this technique is a game-changer for creating depth and texture in your art journal or collage pieces.

In this video, you will see:

How to plan a "reverse" composition for a single pull.

Tips for incorporating a heart focal point into an abstract background.

The "secret" to getting a clean lift every time.

My final reveal for the #NatesArtLabColab!

Here are the key timestamps for the video:

[00:14] - Introduction & Challenge Context: Dave introduces the heart-themed challenge for Nate's Art Lab in celebration of Valentine's Day.

[00:45] - Project Goals: He explains his goal of attempting a "single pull collage," a technique he is currently learning, and notes that he wants the heart to look abstract rather than "neat."

[01:01] - Initial Colors & Setup: Dave describes the colors already on the canvas, including transparent red iron oxide, ruby, and quinacridone red.

[02:07] - Beginning the Process: The artist starts working with various papers and materials to build the collage.

[14:37] - Project Status & Texture: Dave evaluates the piece, noting that while it's not fully finished, he's taking a break and plans to add more texture later.

[15:06] - Reflections on the Heart: He reflects on the final look, mentioning that the heart became more prominent than originally intended, but he's happy with the depth achieved.

[15:26] - Closing: Final remarks and a request for viewers to like, comment, and subscribe to help the channel's algorithm.

Join the Challenge: Check out Nate’s Art Lab to join the community and see more entries for the month of January! [Link to Nate’s Channel/Website]

Materials Used:
Paints: Transparent Oxide Red - Nova Color, Ruby Red - Nova Color, Super Pearl Gold - Nova Color, Super Pearl White - Nova Color, Quinacridone Red - Nova Color, Carbon Black - Amsterdam

Papers: Medical Exam Paper, Tea Bag Paper

16x20" GelElf Plate

6", 4", and 1" Speedball brayer

#NatesArtLab #NatesArtLabColab #SinglePullCollage #GelPlatePrinting #MixedMediaArt #CollageArt #JanuaryArtChallenge #HeartArt