Expressing the Intangible: An Abstract Mixed Media Collage Workshop

This workshop invites participants to delve into abstract art through mixed media collage, focusing on expressing intangible concepts like emotions, dreams, time, and philosophical ideas. Participants will explore how to convey meaning using bold colors, shapes, and textures in a non-representational form, ultimately creating unique and thought-provoking artworks.

Instructor: Chesley Smith, a professional artist and educator with expertise in abstract art and mixed media.

Objectives:

• To introduce participants to the principles of abstract art and how it differs from representational art.
• To explore how abstract concepts can be visually represented using mixed media techniques.
• To encourage creativity and personal expression through the use of diverse materials and techniques.
• To provide hands-on experience in creating abstract mixed-media collages.

Materials Provided:

• Variety of papers, fabrics, and paints
• Adhesives, glues, and cutting tools
• Found objects and embellishments
• Specialized materials (e.g., sandpaper, metal scraps)
• Sketching paper and pencils for planning

Workshop Agenda:

Session 1: Introduction to Abstract Art and Concepts

• Overview of Abstract Art: Discussion on what makes abstract art unique, focusing on its emphasis on emotion, symbolism, and personal interpretation.
• Exploring Themes: Introduction to abstract concepts such as emotions (joy, sorrow), dreams, time, and philosophical ideas (existence, chaos vs. order).
• Inspiration and Examples: Presentation of works by renowned abstract and mixed media artists, highlighting how they convey complex ideas through visual elements.

Session 2: Materials, Techniques, and Concept Development

• Materials Overview: Introduction to materials like paints, papers, fabrics, found objects, and unconventional materials (e.g., sandpaper, metal scraps).
• Techniques Demonstration: Exploration of layering, texture creation, and composition techniques that can be used to express abstract concepts.
• Concept Development: Participants brainstorm and sketch out their ideas, choosing an abstract concept to explore in their artwork.

Session 3: Hands-on Creative Session

• Creating the Collage: Participants begin working on their mixed media collages, translating their abstract concepts into visual form using the materials and techniques discussed.
• Guidance and Support: The instructor provides one-on-one assistance, helping participants refine their techniques and fully develop their artistic vision.

Session 4: Group Discussion and Critique

• Sharing and Feedback: Participants present their artworks to the group, explaining the concepts behind their creations and the choices they made in materials and composition.
• Constructive Critique: The group, led by the instructor, offers feedback and insights, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere for learning and growth.

Session 5: Conclusion and Reflection (45 minutes)

• Recap of Learnings: Summarize key takeaways from the workshop, including the importance of abstract thinking in art and how mixed media can be used to express complex ideas.

Host or Publisher Art Center Waco