I’ve been practicing recently on collage form- balance and substance, and judging when a piece is “complete”. It’s a tricky concept for me. I don’t know if classes are taught on the subject, but it would make an interesting topic for study. As a scrapbooker as well as an artist, I’ve evolved in my use of elements on a flat surface. I like to think that I’ve gotten better, that my eye has become more refined. Of course, with scrapbooking if I don’t like the layout, I can usually lift up my elements and rearrange them. These collages, however, are made with paint as well as paper, and I had to be more descriminate in where I placed everything. Once the paint goes on, it’s not comin’ off!
One of the things I struggle with is negative space. The balance seems off if I leave a lot of my canvases empty, but I don’t feel that way when I see the work of others. :) Maybe I’m too critical of myself, or maybe I really do need a lot of work in this area. Either way, it’s one more technique to add to my “work on” list.
I think they are wonderful! I particularly like the browns (even though blue is my favorite color!), I believe because of the dominance of the paper/patterns. You might consider re-evaluating your viewpoint on paint – it may not come off, but it can be covered up. :)
You’re so right, Peggy! Thanks. :)