Non-digital collages – The CreativeMindClass Blog

"I live and work at Bristol UK and studied Illustration at Brighton UK. I've been an active artist and illustrator since 2013, and my work has slowly changed over the years from bright and colorful character work to more abstracted and intensive work. I tend to make work with a mix of drawings, collages, or a combination of both, and every so often 3D. I also make and self-publish many zines, and sometimes comics."

How would you describe the style of your collage?

"Primarily not digital" (though that's a personal preference, both traditional and digital ways of working are as valid as each other) and a lot of textures on paper. I used to works using lots of bright colours, however I've been trying to be more thoughtful and quiet when it comes to my color choices in recent times. I put a lot of focus on the composition of shapes and patterns as well. Most of my work is quite playful, as I see my collages and drawings that I create as playing, or an act that is amusement."

What is the key to creating collages?

"It's difficult to choose a single 'key' to how I create illustrations, as well as other work. A sense of fun or joy is essential in the way I create work. I try always to find a way to incorporate that in whatever I'm creating. When I make art, I tell myself: 'If I'm not enjoying making this particular piece then I shouldn't be making it. I'll have to come up with a different method'. More often than not with illustrations, I have found that to get the best result, simplifying everything is a huge help. It is common for me to get caught up on details, or specific thoughts or concepts, then need to take a step back and simplify everything back to its essence. It is often the case that this applies in as many ways to the content as it could be to the form."

"I made a piece for a really worthwhile project which was launched in the UK called Communitea. 55 artists including myself were invited to make a piece of work in response to our relationship with Chinese tradition. The work can now be purchased as a print from Roomfifty where all the profits go towards helping keep the London Chinese Community centre from closing and fight the growing tide of hatred towards Asians."

Explore more collages by Ed on Instagram and his site.

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