Collage

Header image: Eugene J.Martin, A Nutcracker, 2000. mixed media collage on paper. Collection of S. Fredericq

What is Collage?

Collage is an art form that uses various materials to create an image. Some images are abstract and some are more realistic.

Artists use paper cut outs, pieces of cardboard, and items they find like feathers, leaves, and springs to make their art. Many artists make their own painted papers to create their collages.

Abstract collage

The subject of this type of collage may not be clear - you discover the meaning on your own.


Robert Motherwell, View from a High Tower, (1944-45) Mixed-media collage on paperboard. Private collection.

Realistic Collage

This type of collage creates a recognizable image - you can clearly see the meaning.


Mary McCleary, When Sparrows Fell, 2001Mixed-media collage on paper. Private collection

In this photo you can see the author Eric Carle painting the tissue paper he uses to make his illustrations. He wrote The Hungry Caterpillar.

That's a lot of paper!

Who are some famous artists that used collage?

The horse, the rider and the clown, from the illustrated book, Jazz. (1947) Colored paper, stencil. Art Institute of Chicago


The Hotel Eden, 1945 Wooden box, lithograph, string. National Gallery of Canada
Jamming at the Savoy, 1980Colored etching and aquatint in artist painted mat. The Studio Museum, Harlem.


Are there other children's book illustrators who use collage?

Page from Balloons Over Broadway, 2011 Mixed media (pen and ink, fabric, thread, wood, buttons, various papers)

Click here for more information on the creation of this book.

Page from Ten Little Ducks, 1990 Painted tissue on illustration board.