Welcome to this series’ Collage Circle focus: Contrast
If you missed the video introduction to this topic, paid subscribers can find the full video HERE, where you can see how I started off this series with these 6 little collage backgrounds featuring a variety of contrasting elements.
Not sure if you want to go paid? Not to worry - I’ll cover everything mentioned in the video in these weekly posts over the next few weeks. You can also try a free 1-week trial (look for the “start trial” button when you choose “going paid”.
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What is CONTRAST?
Contrast is one of the Principles of Art. Other Principles include movement, pattern, unity, balance, emphasis, and proportion. An artist uses these principles to make use of various elements to develop an art piece and direct the viewer to achieve an artistic goal.
“Elements of design are your building blocks for when you’re making your art. The Principles of Art are how you use those building blocks…”
from Introductory Video
CONTRAST Sample: Collage 1
Contrast may be achieved in a variety of ways - from differences in texture to those in temperature.
This week, I started with my collage background built on a contrast of photographic periods: early (with a black and white photo from a family album) and late 20th century (with a color photo from my childhood collection).
I liked how both these images had a focus on landscapes and trees. I further contrasted these images with a wrinkled paper bag background which I thought continued that sense of being in nature. I also had a naturally occurring contrast of both value (the lights and darks in the top image) and hue (using color compliments, blue, and rust-orange in the bottom image).
The juxtaposition of the photos then created what looked to be a light-filled “hole” in the middle of the piece. I decided to emphasize this in both the design and story of this piece.
Adding the stamps helped me to define the center as a “wormhole” which then allowed me to add a vintage photograph from my grandmother’s collection (two men driving a cart with, I think, donkeys) on one side of the wormhole and a modern little painted scrap from my art-making. Titled “How to Time Travel: Part I”, this piece seemed to lead me through the collage process as I added elements to the story, just as these two men were leading their charges through space and time.
Over the next few weeks, we’ll continue to look at different types of contrast. Highlighting differences can often lead to stronger compositions and stories. And hopefully, you’ll find it fun too!
Happy Collaging,
~ Jennifer
What is Collage Circle?
A collage community. A supportive creative space. An evolving idea.
A place to learn and grow - introducing Principles of Art, Elements of Design, and self-expression through collage with consideration for materials and the stories they hold.
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Collage Circle is a community and idea in development - started in 2024 by Oregon artist, Jennifer Lommers. Please feel free to share your thoughts on this post or for ways to make this community work for you.
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