Adult Collage: Modern Collage Through the Ages

Modern Collage Through the Ages

Course Description:
This course offers an immersive exploration into the evolution of collage as an art form, examining influential periods and artists who have defined and redefined collage techniques. Each week focuses on a different era and its pivotal artists, blending interactive art history lessons with hands-on collage making. From early 20th-century innovations by Picasso to contemporary interpretations by artists like Jose Romussi, students will create their own works inspired by the masters of collage.

Course Objectives:

• Understanding Historical Contexts: Gain insights into the historical backdrop of each era’s collage techniques and the artists who pioneered them.
• Exploring Artist Techniques: Learn about the specific techniques and themes used by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Hannah Höch, and Jose Romussi.
• Developing Collage Skills: Apply various collage techniques including cut-and-paste, photomontage, and digital collage to create unique artworks.
• Artistic Expression and Experimentation: Encourage personal expression and creativity in applying historical techniques to contemporary themes.
• Critiquing and Discussing Art: Engage in discussions and critiques to deepen understanding of artistic intentions and impacts across different periods.

Weekly Breakdown:

• Week 1: Early 20th Century Explorations

  • Focus Artists: Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque
  • Activity: Creating cubist inspired paper collages.

• Week 2: Dada and Political Expression

  • Focus Artist: Hannah Höch
  • Activity: Assembling photomontages that comment on societal issues.

• Week 3: Surrealism and Beyond

  • Focus Artists: Max Ernst and Man Ray
  • Activity: Crafting surreal collages using a combination of found objects and photographs.

• Week 4: Pop Art and Cultural Commentary

  • Focus Artists: Richard Hamilton and Romare Bearden
  • Activity: Producing pop art collages that reflect contemporary cultural symbols.

• Week 5: Feminist Reclamations

  • Focus Artists: Martha Rosler and Barbara Kruger
  • Activity: Creating digital collages that explore themes of identity and gender.

• Week 6: Postmodern and Digital Collage

  • Focus Artists: David Hockney and Christian Marclay
  • Activity: Experimenting with digital collage techniques using modern software.

• Week 7: Street Art and Public Spaces

  • Focus Artists: Banksy and JR
  • Activity: Designing large-scale collages intended for public engagement.

• Week 8: Contemporary Innovations

  • Focus Artist: Jose Romussi
  • Activity: Integrating embroidery and collage to create textured mixed media artworks.