Magazines are often a good source of collage images.
A collage is a two dimensional work of art that is made of a variety of images and other items that are not typically associated with each other. Magazines are often a rich source of both text and images for collages. To make a collage you glue elements to a surface to create a new composition. Unrelated elements can be combined in almost limitless numbers of creative ways. While the collage technique is practised by many professional artists, it is suitable for children as well.
Instructions
Prepare the Support
1. Prepare a sturdy support upon which to glue your collage elements. Cardboard, card stock or canvas board are all good choices. Once you have a support that is the size you require for your collage, choose a color palette for your piece. One of the colors should be your dominant color. If you do not pay attention to color, your collage will lack cohesion due to the fact that the various images are basically unrelated. Paint with acrylics or otherwise color the support in one or more of the colors of your palette. This will be the background for your collage.
2. Find images and text for your collage by looking through magazines. Old issues of "National Geographic," fashion magazines and art magazines are often good sources. Your images should be predominately in the colors of your chosen palette. You may decide to use words and alphabet letters as well. Cut the text and images out carefully with a sharp pair of scissors.
3. Arrange and rearrange the magazine images, text and any embellishments on the support. Examples of collage embellishments are pieces of lace or other fabric, ribbon, used postage stamps, glitter, product packaging, buttons or beads. Manipulate the pieces until you are satisfied with your composition.
4. Glue all of the elements to the support. Use a glue stick for the magazine cuttings in order to avoid the air pockets that normally occur when thin paper is affixed with glue. Make sure, however, that you run the glue stick to the very edges of your images. They should be completely attached to the support. Non-paper embellishments should be affixed to the support with glue that is appropriate for the type of embellishment you have chosen. Sign your work because your collage is now complete.
