Collages

Intention:

Artists, therapists, and art therapists use collages as means of communication and expression of ideas and dynamics. Combining images, text, and other materials, collages express messages and meanings in unique and even dramatic ways. The process of creating a collage can be as valuable as the product itself, as discoveries and insights can be reached by selecting and working on certain themes, choosing from an infinite selection of ideas and materials, and assembling them in particular compositions.

We invite you to get involved in this exercise of creating collages, be it alone or in the context of meaningful relationships.

Instruction:

Choose a comfortable place and dedicate at least an hour for this activity.

For the background, get a medium or large size cardstock or sturdy paper.

Select and cut out images and text from magazines, newspapers, books, or from the Internet.

Have pens, colored pencils and markers, crayons, pastel chalks, paints and other drawing and painting tools on hand.

Use scissors, glue, and other materials that can be attached to the base, such as thread, string, fabric, feathers, beads, and small objects.

Select a theme or name for the collage, based on a topic relevant to your life. Using the theme as a guide, create the collage by drawing, painting, positioning, and gluing the selected materials and objects to the base.

When you have completed the assembly, contemplate it in silence for several minutes.

Reflect on the experience by talking with someone and/or writing about it responding to the following:

Inspection:

·       How did you select the theme or name, the materials, and the layout of the collage?

·       What did you recognize or learn about yourself or the person who did the collage?

·       What feelings, thoughts, and questions were stimulated while creating the collage, and upon completion?