ARTIST STATEMENT - MICHAEL HASSIG
Michael Hassig - Iowa Falls, Iowa, USA
Papier Colle' - French term used to describe a collage technique using pieces of paper to develop a flat 2-dimensional surface. In this process I use pictures from color plate books. They are cut/torn into various shapes deconstructing the original image. these pieces function as the pictorial elements of shape, color, texture and patterns of light and dark. My collages are created using good quality paper, scissors, x-acto knife and glue sticks. My work is abstract in imagery. The design itself is the subject. I do not start with a preconceived image in mind but let the random pieces by chance begin the construction. After that the places I have traveled to, books I read, music listened to and the teachings I've absorbed over the years accompany me on my adventures with paper. The quartet of paper collages focus on a recent trip to the Pacific Northwest. We hiked Olympic National Forest and Mt. Rainier National Park. These hikes provided a treasure of colors and textures along the way. My collages reflect and intimate conversation with nature. The music of Bob Dylan was always playing while working on these pieces. The titles are a play on the song lyrics and the collage imagery.
Thank You, Michael Hassig
mphassig@gmail.com