Explore mixed media collage through the lens of master artists in this hands-on, beginner-friendly class. Inspired by artists like Vincent van Gogh, you’ll study elements of their work—color, movement, and composition—and reinterpret them in your own unique way.
You’ll create your own hand-painted papers, then use them to build layered collage pieces full of texture, color, and personality. The instructor will guide you step-by-step through each stage, with one-on-one support along the way.
This class is about learning from the masters while developing your own voice—loosening up, exploring color, and enjoying the process of creating.
Week 1 – Introduction & Paper Painting
We’ll begin with an introduction to the class, materials, and inspiration from master artists like The Starry Night and others. You’ll paint your own collage papers, exploring color, mark-making, and texture. Step-by-step demos and individual guidance throughout.
Week 2 – Preparing the Canvas & Background
Learn how to prepare your surface and begin building your background. You’ll start layering your painted papers to create movement and depth, inspired by the energy and expressive style of the artist we’re studying.
Week 3 – Building the Subject
Focus on developing your main subject using collage. We’ll break down shapes and composition, learning how to simplify and interpret forms inspired by master works while making it your own.
Week 4 – Developing the Piece
Continue building your collage, refining composition, color relationships, and layering. We’ll focus on bringing cohesion and balance to your work, with step-by-step instruction and one-on-one feedback.
Week 5 – Strengthening & Refining
Push your piece further by enhancing contrast, adjusting composition, and deepening layers. This week is about refining what’s already there and making stronger visual decisions.
Week 6 – Final Details & Completion
Bring your work to completion by focusing on final details, texture, and finishing touches. We’ll step back, evaluate the overall piece, and make small but important adjustments that bring the artwork together as a finished composition.
1) Canvas (12x12 or 9x12)
2) Matt or Gel Medium
3) Collage Paper (specialty paper, magazine paper, tissue paper)
4) Acrylic Paint ROYGBV
5) Different size brushes
6) Hair Dryer
7) Spray bottle
8) Stencils
9) Sponge for stenciling
10) Pencil
11) Scissors
12) Acrylic Paint Pen
15) Paper plate (for paint)
16) White chalk Pencil
17)water cup
