Mental Blocks

Module 1: Welcome to Mental Blocks

Ever wonder why creative blocks exist in the first place? Spoiler alert: they're trying to protect you from something that doesn't actually need protecting. We're going to break down the philosophy behind Mental Blocks, why working on multiples changes everything, and what "Block Busters" are (and why you'll want to use them even after this class is over).

Module 2: Gathering & Preparing

Let's talk supplies without the overwhelm. What you actually need, what's just nice to have. Plus, we'll prep those wooden blocks so they're ready to become something amazing.

Module 3: Curating for Collage

Not all collage materials are created equal. Learn what actually sticks (and what peels off at 2am), how to build a collection of imagery that excites you, and how to deal with “bonus” texture.

Module 4: Building Backgrounds

This is where it starts getting fun. We're creating layered, textured backgrounds that give your collage something interesting to land on. Think of it like setting the stage before the actors arrive except sometimes the stage steals the show.

Module 5: The Audition Process

Here's where you learn to play. We're arranging, rearranging, and auditioning collage elements without committing to anything. This is the "try it before you glue it" phase, and it's where juxtaposition starts creating unexpected magic.

Module 6: Paint Fundamentals

We'll demystify transparent vs. opaque, different techniques for creating glazes of colour. Talk about the colours mixes that enhance (not muddy) your work, and learn to use paint as an integration tool—not just decoration.

Module 7: Assembly & Integration

Decision time. We're gluing down those auditioned elements and committing to compositions. But here's the secret: even "wrong" choices serve the collective. Plus, we'll explore different adhesion methods and why some techniques work better than others.

Module 8: Paint as Integration

This is where paint becomes the secret ingredient that transforms disconnected collage pieces into a unified composition. You'll learn to apply our learned paint techniques to create cohesion between your glued down elements, and use colour to tie everything together without losing the collage underneath. We’ll discuss how to add light and shadow and pump up the contrast.

Module 9: The Pendulum Swing

Just when you thought you were done with collage... we're adding more. This module is about that beautiful back-and-forth between collage and paint, knowing when to add another layer and when to step back. It's the rhythm that creates depth.

Module 10: Mark-Making & Details

Time for the finishing touches: fineliners, acrylic pens, dry brushing, textures and tissues. These are the details that make your blocks sing—but only if you know when to stop. We'll talk about that too.

Module 11: Seeing the Whole

Step back. Way back. This is where you arrange your blocks and discover what the collective is trying to tell you. Individual "failures" become essential parts of the story. The chaos reveals its purpose. The wall of wonder emerges. Plus, we'll cover the practical stuff: final finishing techniques, how to hang your blocks and how to protect and care for your collection so it lasts.

+ Bonus: The Philosophy

Want to understand WHY this methodology works when everything else failed? This deep dive explores constraint-based creativity, the permission-giving framework, and the neuroscience behind why working on multiples dissolves creative paralysis.

+ Do I need experience?

Not at all. Mental Blocks works for complete beginners learning mixed media techniques from scratch AND experienced artists who feel stuck in creative paralysis. The methodology meets you where you are. Beginners learn solid technical foundations. Experienced artists break through blocks using the anti-narrative approach.

+ What if I can't make the live sessions?

Every Zoom session is recorded and available for replay within 48 hours. All pre-recorded modules are available immediately on February 14 for completely self-paced learning. Work on your own schedule, in your own timezone.

+ What happens during the live Zoom sessions?

The Zoom sessions are for virtual studio time—not lectures. Each Saturday, we gather for 60-90 minutes where I answer your questions with live mini-demos, troubleshoot specific challenges you're facing, and we work together in real-time. Think of it as co-working with your instructor in the room. I collect questions from the Facebook group beforehand, but you can also ask spontaneously. If we don't have many questions that week, we simply use the time to create together while you get real-time feedback on your blocks. The final session (Week 8) is a celebration critique where everyone shares their completed collection.

+ How long do I have access?

Forever. Lifetime access means you can revisit the course whenever you need a creativity reset, want to refresh techniques, or simply rewatch your favorite modules. No time limits.

+ What if I don't finish during the 8 weeks?

That's completely fine—life happens! Lifetime access means you work at your own pace. The methodology works whether you complete your blocks in 8 weeks or 8 months. Many students return to the course multiple times to create new collections.

+ I'm terrible at finishing projects. Will this work for me?

Actually, yes. This is exactly who Mental Blocks helps most. Working on multiple blocks simultaneously means you're always making progress somewhere. When you feel stuck on one block, you shift to another. The structured exercises keep momentum building naturally. You'll be surprised how much you complete. Plus most of creativity busting exercises only take about 5 minutes to complete.

+ What makes this different from other mixed media courses?

Mental Blocks isn't just technique instruction—it's a complete system combining creativity exercises, structured technical process, and the simultaneous creation method. It's specifically designed to break creative paralysis, not just teach skills. The constraint-based approach is pedagogically different from "follow along and make this exact thing" courses.

+ How is this different from your in-person Mental Blocks workshops?

The core methodology is identical—you'll learn the same techniques, creativity exercises, and anti-narrative approach I've taught in live workshops for 15 years. But the online version actually goes DEEPER. In-person workshops are intensive 2-day experiences (12 hours total) where I demonstrate individual techniques on partially completed blocks—just enough to show you the method once before you work on your own. In the online version, you get to watch me create multiple blocks from start to finish. You see every decision, every layer, every adjustment as blocks evolve from blank wood to finished pieces. Plus, you get more comprehensive instruction with additional Block Buster creativity exercises, downloadable resources you can use forever, 8 weeks of live support, and lifetime access to rewatch any technique as many times as needed—all things we simply don't have time for in the compressed in-person format. Many students prefer the online version because they actually absorb more, see the complete process unfold, and finish their blocks without the time pressure.

+ Can I take this course from anywhere?

Yes! This is a fully online course. Live Zoom sessions are scheduled for Saturdays 10:30am-12pm PST, but all sessions are recorded if that time doesn't work for your schedule or timezone.

+ Will I need special equipment or software?

No. This is hands-on mixed media work with physical materials. You'll need basic art supplies (see supply list above), but no special equipment, software, or digital tools required.

+ I don't have a lot of space. Can I still do this?

Absolutely. You can work on a kitchen table or desk. If space is really at a premium you can use smaller blocks (like 5”x7”) You don't need a dedicated studio.

+ Do I need to be "good at art"?

This question makes me smile because it's exactly the kind of thinking Mental Blocks is designed to break through. No, you don't need to be "good at art." You just need to be willing to make stuff, imperfect stuff, weird stuff, experimental stuff. That's the whole point.

+ What if my blocks turn out ugly?

Perfect! I mean that seriously. The "ugly" blocks often become the most essential pieces of your collection. This methodology works because individual blocks don't need to be perfect—the collective creates the meaning. Plus, we'll talk about how to work with blocks that feel challenging.

+ Can I use different sized blocks?

Yes! While 6"x8" is recommended, you can work on squares (6"x6"), slightly larger blocks (8"x10"), smaller blocks, or even a mix of sizes if that excites you. The methodology works with any size—just make sure you're working on multiples.

+ Will you critique my work?

The final live Zoom session (Week 8) includes an encouraging group critique where I celebrate everyone's completed blocks. This isn't traditional art school critique—it's positive, supportive, and focuses on what's working. I also answer questions and provide guidance during all 8 weekly sessions.

+ What if I get stuck or frustrated?

That's what the live Zoom sessions and private Facebook community are for! You can ask questions, share your struggles, and get real-time support. Plus, the Block Buster exercises are specifically designed to help you work through stuck moments.

+ Can I take this course more than once?

With lifetime access, you can revisit the course as many times as you want. Many students create multiple collections using the same methodology. Each time you work through it, you'll discover something new.

+ What's your refund policy?

Due to the immediate access to all video content and downloadable resources, I'm unable to offer refunds once you've enrolled. However, your satisfaction matters to me. If you have concerns about whether this course is right for you, please email me at artist@andreamatus.com before enrolling and I'm happy to answer any questions to help you make the best decision.

+ I have other questions. How do I contact you?

Email me directly at artist@andreamatus.com and I'll get back to you within 1-2 business days.

Mental Blocks is designed to be flexible and accessible. You’ll work with common mixed-media materials, found papers, matte medium, and acrylic paints. Many items are optional, interchangeable, or things you may already have.

A detailed supply list with substitutions and size options is provided as a downloadable PDF.