The Art of Collage
- Karen Hanna
- Oct 26
- 9 min read
Collage is a Technique of Art Creation
I've been contemplating whether collage is regarded as fine art within galleries and among collectors. I'll leave that decision to you. Collage and mixed media are among my favorite art forms. I liken it to solving a puzzle. The distinction lies in not only assembling the puzzle but also crafting the pieces as you progress and determining how they fit together, thereby forming your design concept.
Collage originated from the French word "Coller" meaning to glue. It is an art form where various materials, such as paper, fabric, and photos are cut, arranged and glued to a singular surface to create a new image or composition. Collage is primarily used in visual arts, but in music too, by which art results from an assembly of different forms, creating a new whole. The
technique is basically made up of overlapping pieces of material such as photographs fabrics, colored and textured papers and other types of mixed media including book pages, magazines pages, markers and paints.
The process emphasizes choosing materials and cutting or tearing them into the desired shapes, then arranging them into the preferred composition before adhering them to a surface. The term "collage" was introduced around 1910 by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, two pioneers of the Cubist movement.
Let's explore some of the history of "Coller". I believe that understanding the background of an art form or technique can be fascinating, allowing me to view it with fresh eyes and personalize the technique. I think this approach aids in developing one's style as an artist.
A little collage history
The origins of collage can be traced back to the invention of paper in ancient China. In 10th century Japan, a method known as chegar ee involved attaching paper to depict poems, possibly one of the earliest forms of collage. In Medieval Europe, techniques such as applying gold leaf and tinsel to manuscripts and religious images emerged in both the Islamic and European worlds during the 13th century. In the 18th century, artist Mary Delany crafted intricate paper collages of flowers, merging art with science.
In the 19th Century, the advent of affordable paper and color printing led to the popularity of scrapbooking and decoupage as hobbies. Victorian women were at the forefront of creating photo collages during the 1860s.
The early 20th Century of course brought Picasso and Braque coining of the name collage. Picasso famously glued a piece of oilcloth to his painting "Still Life" with chair caning. George Braque created paper collé which uses bits of paper instead of found images. The idea came to him after finding a roll of faux woodgrain wallpaper in a shop window that inspired him to cut it into small pieces. He began cutting and pasting the paper pieces into his drawings.
Contemporary artist today continue to use collage to explore a wide range of themes, questions, assumptions and comment on social issues.
Collage today
Collages are universal. They can be found in the works of surrealist, abstract expressionist,
pop artist, and contemporary artist.
Creating collages is accessible to everyone. Simply grab some scissors, glue, and old newspapers, and let your creativity flow. In collage art, there are no strict rules, and you aren't restricted to using only paper. Various forms of collages exist. For instance, "paper collé," meaning "pasted paper," involves solely using paper adhered to a flat surface. This contrasts with traditional collage, which incorporates a variety of materials beyond just paper, harking back to the techniques of Picasso and Braque.
Assemblages, or Assemblage Art, sometimes known as junk art, involves creating 3-D compositions using found objects. This artistic process was initially inspired by the Surrealists, who crafted art pieces influenced by Sigmund Freud's writings on dreams and the unconscious.
Décollage is a French term that means to unstick, referring to the process of tearing away layers of advertisement posters to uncover images and words beneath. This concept is closely
tied to the nouveau realism movement of the 1960s, a French art movement that serves as a European counterpart to pop art. This movement utilized everyday objects and materials to "recycle" the urban, industrial, and advertising reality.
Montage or photomontage involves assembling related images into a cohesive composition. Photomontage specifically uses photographs to achieve this effect. It can serve as a powerful tool for social commentary by transforming images to convey new meanings. If you're interested in exploring collage themes in contemporary art, consider these artists. Benjamin West creates photomontages inspired by the relationship between human activity and nature, showcasing the interaction and often juxtaposition of natural and manmade elements. Kareem Rizk is internationally recognized for his distinct collage style as a mixed media artist. His nostalgic work features vintage clippings, transporting viewers back in time with beautifully warm-toned creations.
Gather your materials to create your collage
Even if you're a beginner, you can create a collage piece. Begin with the base, which is where you'll attach your papers and other collage components. Your base might be a canvas, sturdy paper, cardboard, or a wood panel. Next, gather your collage materials. Opt for a mix of papers, such as pages from old books, magazines, photographs, digital images, postcards, and gift wrap. Consider using old paper dolls, letters, and music sheets. If you already work with paper, utilize your Gelli Plate to craft your own unique papers for the collage. Experiment with different papers like deli paper, artist teabag paper, or Japanese rice paper with your Gelli Plate. These materials are available on Amazon and at some craft stores. If you wish to incorporate elements beyond paper, consider adding fabric, shells, or plants.
Tools
You'll need scissors, a short pair like decoupage or collage precision scissors can be particularly useful for detailed cutting. Alternatively, you can use a craft knife or tear your papers, which provides softer edges for layering compared to sharp cut edges. Try experimenting with a mix of pieces—some with cut edges and some with torn edges—to achieve different effects. You might also find a circular cutter useful. The decision is yours. Additionally, a ruler can be handy for tearing a straight line.
Adhesives
Nori acid-free paste is water-based, archival, and non-toxic. If you're working on an art journal, UHU stic glue might be all you need. Yes Paste is another versatile flat glue. While many people like Modge Podge, some other glues might be more cost-effective. For archival purposes, the best glues are PVA glues or
acrylic matte and gloss mediums. Consider Liquitex, Golden Paint mediums, or Nova Paint for purchasing your medium online at a reasonable price, as they all offer acrylic water-based mediums. I've also experimented with methyl cellulose, sometimes referred to as archival wallpaper paste. You can buy a bag of the powder for $6.95 from Earth Paint online and create a quart jar of paste by adding distilled water to make the glue. It's quite economical.
Other Optional Products
Explore additional art supplies to enhance layering and visual effects in your collage. Experiment with acrylic paints, applying them with your fingers, brushes, or a palette knife. Montana Spray Paint is suitable for indoor use and can add depth to your artwork. Consider incorporating watercolors or gouache to discover the effects you can achieve.
Acrylic markers, gel pens, and alcohol markers. You can splatter acrylic paints or other inks, or use them to draw on your piece as you layer the collage paper. You might also enjoy adding stamps or stencils to enhance the dimension.
Plan and arrange
With your tools and materials ready, it's time to begin cutting, tearing, and planning your composition. Keep in mind your color palette, as color continues to influence your design.
Use an artist color wheel if you are not sure how to put your colors together.
You can explore Pinterest for color palette ideas to kickstart your project. Next, choose a conceptual idea or design theme for your collage. It doesn't have to be complex. Once more, use Pinterest for inspiration. Additionally, think about the various layers you will create, as you might want to incorporate writing or other elements besides paper.
Create your collage
After envisioning a theme or design concept, conduct a trial run before adhering your pieces to see how your idea translates onto your base. Experiment with techniques like layering beneath existing images or strategically placing papers to achieve balance. Once you have a satisfying design, take a photo and some close-ups for reference in case you lose track of the arrangement. This also helps you assess the design and composition to ensure it's visually appealing. Apply glue to your base or the paper pieces, covering only a small area at a time. As you glue, use your fingertips or a brayer to eliminate air bubbles and prevent wrinkles, then brush another layer of glue over the pieces to secure them to your base. Check the pieces as you work to ensure no new air bubbles or wrinkles appear. While some wrinkling is hard to avoid, air bubbles indicate that the paper isn't fully adhered to the base. Allow the pieces to dry between layers to prevent tearing or lifting as you work. Once the glue has dried completely, you can add any painted details you desire. After everything is dry, seal your piece with a spray sealer or acrylic varnish. This step is optional, but a stain, matte, or gloss sealer can create different effects and help protect your work.
Does it sound scary?
If you've never tried collage before, it might be intriguing. Begin with a 12x12" flat canvas panel, a wood panel, or a piece of cardboard. Have fun and enjoy the process. Many artists experiment with collage in their art journals, which can be an enjoyable way to start. Gather your base, papers, tools, paints, stencils, stamps, and markers, and start creating. You don't need to collect everything I mentioned—just enough to get you started. Once you've made one, you'll likely want to expand your supplies. Collage is a simple art form, but it can be elevated to a more sophisticated level through design concepts and intricate layering. It is a skill and art form you can develop to achieve complex designs. Like any technique, it takes practice to reach more advanced levels of design. Collage can simply be a fun hobby or a craft to enjoy with kids. It can also be a great "sip and create" project for a fun night with friends. Enjoy! You might have just discovered a new way to express your creativity.
Freebie
As part of the collage art process, begin by gathering some papers. If you're printing on standard printer paper, allow the print to dry for a minute or two before applying a clear sealer or fixative. This will add some sturdiness to the paper and prevent the print from smudging. If you want the edges of your torn paper to blend seamlessly into the base, consider using printable rice paper, which can be found on Amazon. Keep in mind that torn edges blend more effectively than cut edges, but the decision is yours.
Tips/Books
If you have a strong interest in collage, consider delving deeper into the subject. Search for books on collage or mixed media through Google. Explore used books on online platforms, including Amazon. You'll find resources for beginners, adult collage enthusiasts, and those interested in vintage-style collage. Take a look at Collage Soup's printable collage books, as well as their selection of art papers and vintage ephemera. Visit their website at https://collagesoup.com. Make sure to check out the freebies they offer. Some of Collage Soup's products are also available on Amazon, alongside other ephemera books, packs, papers, and stickers.
What I'm working on
I'm on the porch with my morning tea, observing my two little dogs as they try to spot the two old feral cats I've started feeding. I suppose they're now my responsibility. The morning sky is painted with blues and pinks, as the sun plays peekaboo with the clouds. This has become a morning ritual: tea, the dogs, and now the cats too, all while watching the morning sky and the sunrise. It brings me peace to know that some things remain constant. The sun will rise and set, and the clouds will drift across the sky. Soon, I'll have breakfast and then head out for my morning walk. Yes, I'm still taking photos as I walk, and my collection keeps growing.
I'm still recovering in terms of my health after experiencing septic shock, an infected kidney
stone, and a heart attack in March. This was followed by an internal bleed at the end of May
that required me to receive three units of blood. It's been a surreal year for me. I've had to focus more on myself and my health than anything else. I was worried my artwork would suffer, but it hasn't. Although I'm not producing as much as before, my work seems more thoughtful. My business is on hold for now until I understand its future importance to me. I'm sure I'll continue with my website and local business, but for now, it's not a major priority for me. I still believe I have things to accomplish through my art and will see what opportunities arise in the New Year, but for now, I'm enjoying the fall here in south central Texas. The fall festivals and soon the holiday fairs and markets. Everything is good, and my world feels peaceful and beautiful. I hope you take some time to enjoy a bit of the fall season before the holiday rush begins, whether it's your morning coffee while watching the sunrise, a walk on a cool fall evening, or gathering with family. Enjoy, my friends. You only live once.
On my website
Some of the art available on my website.
Inspirational quote
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