Creating Cows Yorkshire Cows (mixed media, 22x30) is 90 percent collage paper. The background papers have tiny leaves and petals. For the cows, I used marbled and soft black papers that feathered when torn. Then I painted in cobalt blue, alizarin crimson, yellow ochre and Prussian blue to add highlights and textures. I outlined shapes with black, gold and silver inks.

Materials:
2-inch flat brush
assorted collage papers
gouache
roller ball ink pen - white, gold, or black
watercolor paper
watercolors
waxed paper
white glue

Step by Step

Painting with collage paper is a quick way to develop an impressionistic-looking painting without much effort. The various colors and textures dictate the design and mood; I just have fun. In a way it reminds me of my grade school art class, but the results are quite striking.

My experimental lightbulb came on when artist Gerald Brommer taught me to paint collage papers with watercolor and then apply them to my watercolor paintings like pieces of a mosaic. Using my successful paintings as a reference, I began creating exciting, unique “mosaic collages” with a variety of colored and flowered papers. There are no rules. Every collage is an experiment. So get out your paints and paper and have a good time.

The Process

You can beging a collage painting in several ways. I usually start with a very loose watercolor to use a s a guide or I make a sketch based on a previous painting, a drawing from my sketchbook or a photograph. Then I select at least five different textured collage papers and tear them in 5x7 pieces, leaving rough edges on the papers to create interest. Next I paint each of these pieces of paper with transparent watercolor. (To keep the collage paper from getting stuck on my surface, I put waxed paper underneath.) I usually paint more papers than I’ll use to make sure I have a full range of colors for my painting.

When the collage papers dry, I tear them into smaller pieces, being mindful of the direction of the patterned papers. Then I use a cheap 2-inch flat brush to apply diluted white glue (2-1 glue-to-water ratio) to my 300-lb., hot- or cold-pressed watercolor paper. Working from the background forward, I brush glue onto the watercolor paper and gently place the painted collage paper where I want it. Next I carefully brush more glue on top of the painted paper. I continue this method until the watercolor paper’s completely covered with my mosaic pattern.

To unify the varied papers, I paint over different areas with transparent watercolor. Then I use gouache to add details and straighten any rough edges. (I’ve found that the gouache covers best when used with very little water.) To finish the painting, I outline every obvious shape and color change with a roller ball ink pen. I like to use white or gold ink around the darker areas of the piece and black ink around the lighter areas.

Experimenting with collage paper is a quick, fun way to establish the foundation of a painting. I get a thrill out of using the various textures and colors, especially the marbled paper, to create unpaintable special effects. Give it a try. I think you’ll like it.