Assemblages & Collages

For my assemblages, or collages, I collect any objects that I find interesting or attractive, even if I have no idea how they will be used.  Some things are attractive because of their shapes or colors or textures.  Some everyday objects are works of art in themselves, such as old audio speakers or cell phone packaging or the snap-off parts of printer cartridges.  Some items remind me of something else and, grouped with other fascinating objects, form a family!

One thing that I’ve learned about this kind of work is that it helps to plan for the end from the beginning.  Ready-made shadow boxes are limited in their size and depth, and custom-made shadow boxes can cost literally hundreds of dollars.  Several of my projects have been odd sizes and shapes and required the help of a friend to construct a framing solution.  If the concept is important enough, it is worth a bit of construction.  Sometimes, though, it is easier and just as effective to decide on the shape and size to fit the work to the box!

Another thing that I learned early is that glues are not created equal!  Many glues say that they will hold almost anything, but in my experience that is not the case.  I’ve learned to experiment beforehand.  On one of my first projects, I used hot glue, which was easy and held well - until a bright summer sun came through the Gallery on Tenth window and warmed everything up!  Some reconnecting was required.  I have found rubber cement to be very effective for paper-to-paper gluing.  For most other things, I’ve come to depend on E6000 glue, with Quick Grip being nearly as effective.  It also helps to find places for screws, nails, brads, and staples when they can be hidden.

Each project is an education!