P a i n t i n g with P a p e r

P a i n t i n g with P a p e r:
Creating Abstract Collages

             Select some pieces from your collection of colored papers - from magazines, fliers, ads, from torn-up paintings, or purpose-painted scraps.   You should do this based on COLOR, TEXTURE (actual or optical), SHAPE, and SIZE.    The last two can be altered by cutting or tearing, of course.
            You may have a subject in mind (a landscape or figure, perhaps) or you may not. Playing with the shapes may allow a subject to emerge.   Or you may decide to design in the abstract.   You don’t have to wait to be inspired before you begin; the process of selecting and arranging the pieces on your support will soon get you involved.
          Arrange the colored paper on your support, without gluing anything down at first.   Compose as you go, keeping in mind some basic guidelines (not RULES) for composition:

                        Vary shapes
                     Vary sizes of pieces
                        Create areas of greatest value contrast where you want to attract the most attention (light against dark)
                        Be sparing with detail (avoid getting too busy!)
                Vary edges (tear some; cut others)
                Harmonize colors (Remember: cool colors (blues) recede;
                                                warm colors (reds) come forward.
                Let one color dominate
                Let one shape dominate
                Let shapes overlap

Glue down your shapes only when you feel you have a sense of the overall picture. Of course, you’ll have to disturb the arrangement somewhat to apply the glue, but don’t let that inhibit you. Go with the flow - change things as you go. If you make a mistake, you can always pull the piece up again, or cover it with another piece.