THE PROCESS
I enjoy working with paper and building images through a collage process. I first start with a sketch, which I then photocopy to use as a template. I cut my template into varying shapes, following the guidelines of the sketch. For example, in the image below, I cut the shapes for the body, hair, eyelashes, lips, shaded areas and additional details. These template pieces are then taped to the back of thick scrapbooking paper and are again cut into shape.
Once the cutting process is complete, I reassemble the pieces with the use of glue into an image which closely follows the sketch. Shading is done either with overlapping, darker shaded paper which is cut to shape or through the use of colored pencil, marker and/or paint.
PROJECT
I love creating illustrations and particularly love children’s stories. In 2020, I wrote a story and am currently transforming my words into a children’s book called, The Mermaid and the Hare. The following are samples of full-page illustrations from this project.
Sleeping Hare (2020), Paper Collage, 8.5x8.5 inches
Page from The Mermaid and the Hare
Sleeping Hare (2020), Paper Collage, 8.5x8.5 inches
Page from The Mermaid and the Hare
Hear the Mermaid Singing (2020), Paper Collage, 8.5x8.5 inches
Page from The Mermaid and the Hare
Singing Mermaid (2021), Paper Collage, 8.5x8.5 inches
Page from The Mermaid and the Hare
ABOUT
I have included a selection of some of my favorite collages that have been produced over the years.
Left: Selkie Girl (2010), Paper Collage, 8.5x11 inches
Right: Water Nymph (2010), Paper Collage, 8.5x11 inches
Left: Leda and the Swan (2021), Paper Collage, 5x7 inches
Right: Leda and the Swan details
Mother's Day (2009), Paper Collage, 12x12 inches
Festival of Lights (2010), Paper Collage, 11x8.5 inches
Lion (2008), Paper Collage