Rip vs Cut

In the ongoing studio overhaul, I am looking through older collage pieces and realizing that in the beginning of this exploration I often cut out the pieces of paper I used, as seen at left in one of my color studies. These days I almost always just rip papers to get the pieces I want. I think I am attracted to the more random rough edges. Once they are glued down, the papers seem to meld together more too. Maybe I have relaxed into this medium a bit? (Although I've always liked the very graphic nature of this piece...)

National Collage Society

I am a signature member of the National Collage Society, meaning that I have been juried into their Annual Show for at least three years. They also sponsors an open Small Works show of postcard-sized collages. Deadline to submit collages is April 18th. I plan to work on some ideas for that in the next few weeks. I have participated in this show for many years and was fortunate to see the show during the years it was on display at Lincoln Center in New York City. My piece, "Flirt," won an award in 2001. "Frame of Mind" (pictured here, 6 x 4") won an award in 2003 and "Perspective" won an award in 2004.

Offshoot

Here is the finished collage, titled "Offshoot," that I started last week (In Progress 2.22.08). I will have to wait for a warmer-weather day to get the varnish on it. I use Golden Polymer Varnish with UltraViolet Light Stabilizers to finish my pieces.

In Progress 2.22.08

Beginning work on a 10 x 8 x 1" piece. Not quite sure where it's headed yet. The soft, warm colors are a delight to work with -- think I'm ready for some spring!