Non-digital collages CreativeMindClass Blog

"I reside and work at Bristol UK and studied Illustration at Brighton UK. I've been a practicing artist and illustrator since 2013 with my concentration slowly shifting through time from bright and colorful character work to more abstracted and process heavy work. I tend to make work with a mix of drawing, collage, a mix of the two, as well as occasionally, 3D. I also self-publish and create a lot of zines and occasionally comics."

How would you describe the style of your collage?

"Primarily non-digital (though it's personal preference but both approaches to work are equally valid as each other) that includes a variety of paper textures. I used to make work with lots of bright colours, however I've been trying to be more mindful and calm using my colors over the last few times. I have a strong emphasis on composition and shapes as well. Most of my work is quite playful, as I think of the drawing and collage I make as a form of play, or an activity for fun."

What are the keys to making your collages?

"It's difficult to choose the one key to how I create illustrations as well as other art. An attitude of enjoyment, joy, and play is the primary reason I work. I always try to figure out ways to incorporate that in whatever I'm creating. It is my mantra to always say 'if I'm not having fun doing this specific piece, I shouldn't make it. I'll have to look for a new method'. In the majority of illustration projects, I find that in order to achieve the most effective results, simplifying everything. I often get bogged down in details, or particular ideas or points then have to step back to simplify things down to its basic essence. It is often the case that this applies equally to content as it does be to the shape."

"I created a work for a really worthwhile project that was recently launched here in the UK named Communitea. 55 artists including myself were requested to make a work of work that reflected our relationship to Chinese tradition. The work can be bought as a print from Roomfifty with all profits going to keep the London Chinese Community center from closing and fight the rise of anti-Asian hate."

Explore more collages by Ed via Instagram and his website.