A multilayer electric field grading article comprises first and second layers forming a discrete interface. The first layer comprises a first electric field grading composition comprising first particles dispersed in a first matrix material. The second layer comprises a second electric field grading composition comprising second particles, compositionally different than the first particles, dispersed in a second matrix material. The first and second layers have respective first and second degrees of nonlinearity between respective first and second onset voltages and corresponding first and second breakdown voltages. The first and second layers taken together have a combined onset voltage that is higher than the first and second onset voltages, and the first and second layers taken together have a greater combined degree of nonlinearity than each of the first and second degrees of nonlinearity taken individually. A method of reducing electric field stress at a joint or termination of a substrate includes applying the multilayer electric field grading article to a surface of a substrate.