Don Trout |
One of my workshops in progress at VIVA gallery in Sherman Oaks in the San Fernando Valley |
Generally used A typical packet of #300 Arches watercolor paper, rice papers, glue cup, and brush. |
Watercolor underpainting |
Rice paper collage added |
A SAMPLING OF MY FINISHED COLLAGE SQUARES |
Discover design shapes for larger paintings |
Add texture in a traditional painting |
EXPERIMENTING WITH COLLAGE IS A WONDERFUL WAY TO PLAY WITH DESIGN AND COLOR |
I liked to start with a random colored background wash although as it turned out on this one not much showed in the finished piece. I like a 8 1/2 x 11" piece of #300 Arches Watercolor paper or illustration board. |
I confess, I scanned in the pieces of scrap in Photoshop, created the design,then used that composition to glue in the pieces to complete the finished piece. |
Finishing the painting |
"Canyon Symbols" |
"Tequila Sunrise" |
"Shades of Blue" |
"Chaos Controlled" |
"In Bloom" |
"Endangered Species" |
"How Much Time Left? |
"Toxic Earth" |
"What's Up" |
FOUND PAPERS ADDED TO A TRADITIONAL PAINTING Sometimes, a scrap of newspaper text, a clipped cigarette ad, or a corporate logo, add just the right statement |
A SAMPLING OF SOME OF MY FOUND PAPER COLLAGES |
When the Valley Artist's Guild asked me to do a workshop, I came up with an idea, why not a found papers workshop. Participants bring in their favorite old magazines, clip photos and text, and make up their own compositions. I would demonstrate my technique then they could go to work. A good project for all levels of artistic ability. |
I look at these collages as a three step process; a watercolor under-painting, collage tissues added using white glue or matte medium, and final glazes of color and accents to finish the painting. I don't always adhere to this formula. Re-collaging and repainting may often be needed to change direction, texture, or composition. |