When “make collage” IS your “to-do” list

My 7/21/07 collage, "Through the Looking Glass." Stamps are from Talon Art Stamps, the pictures are from Altered Pages, the paper is from a local art supply store, and the blank book is from Flax Art. This is one of my intuitive collages.

At almost the same time that I began this blog, I learned about art collages and the sub-category of self-discovery collages. I’ve been so focused on words all my life. Now, having a visual, pictorial outlet for my thoughts, feelings, and goals, I’ve noticed a surge not only in my creative output of all types, but also in my ability to make things happen. So many people have asked me not only to post photos of some of the collages, but to explain more about them.

I have all the materials I need to create a collage at hand when I sit at my desk: paper, glue, scissors, X-acto blades, pictures, ink, stamps, and Sharpie pens (as opposed to Sharpie, my dog. He is usually in my office, too, but I don't consider him a collage supply). Sometimes I have a specific theme in mind (focus on goals, don’t take things so seriously, etc.). In that case, I select the materials and paste them in one of my altered books, or to small free-standing cards. Other days I use collages as a predicting device or a way to reveal something within. Those times, I blindly select the paper and main picture, and try to intuit what I need to express. It’s a lot of fun, not very costly, and I’ve been amazed at some of the results.

Here are some of the web sites that give me ideas, as well as provide supplies:

http://www.alteredpages.com/
http://www.okaydave.com/
http://creativelyamused.blogspot.com/
http://www.intuitivecreativity.typepad.com/
http://michelleward.typepad.com/
http://www.artellaland.com/
http://www.flaxart.com/

http://www.talonartstamps.com/Small.html