Mixed Media

The main idea behind this piece was to experiment and play around with collage. I wanted to try something new and see how I could build an image using only cut-up magazine paper. I’ve always liked the look of eyes and how powerful they can be, so I decided to focus on that as my subject. I wanted to bring out the color in the eye and also the surrounding skin, so it all blended. I liked the idea of creating something detailed and intricate out of torn scraps and turning random colors and textures into something that feels more complete and alive. The title Always Ready links to the word that is printed in the top left corner, and also connects to that sense of alertness and curiosity of the eyes.

I used ripped and cut magazine paper glued onto a wood panel, with details added in Sharpie. The magazine pages gave me a wide range of colors and patterns to experiment with, and I liked how the printed text added some depth with words like "always ready",  “genuine”, and “relationship” that ended up fitting into the scene in a cool way. The wood panel made the collage more sturdy and gave it a nice texture underneath the layers, while the Sharpie helped define the edges and lashes to make the eye stand out.

I started by sketching the shape of the eye, then sorted through magazines to find colors that matched the tones I wanted. I experimented with a lot of layering by using torn edges for texture and more clean cuts for structure. I built the iris from darker strips that point outward and added lighter pieces for highlights and reflection. I liked watching it slowly come together as I played with placement, contrast, and coloring. Centering the eye made it the main point, kind of like it’s looking back at you. In the end, the process felt a bit chaotic but really rewarding when experimenting with color, texture, and composition until everything fit together in an unexpected but satisfying way.