Peace of Mind – Torn-Paper Collage

What does this torn-paper collage mean…? I have no idea. My creative process is intuitive.

(And yes, this photo is blurry. I took the picture, hand-held and in low-light conditions. For now, it’s “good enough,” at least until I decide whether to do more with this piece. Then I’ll scan or re-photograph it.)

Here’s how I work on art journaling collages, and similar, stand-alone collages like this:

First, I gather pieces. I see which make visual sense, together. I don’t go looking for logic. Not intellectually, anyway.

The process is entirely visual.

Then I assemble the collage elements – loosely and without adhesive – and see if they still work.

This one is still a work in progress.

I have no idea how “peace of mind” relates to kale, some New England gardens and front doors, the colors of the Paris sky, and the cast of The Lion King.

But there it is. And, stepping back from it, I can see a symmetry in the design that echoes the costuming of the Lion King cast.

I’m not 100% pleased with the balance… yet.

It needs something… maybe.

Or it might be “creative ennui.” I seem to go through that with some pieces, and – a few days later – decide that the piece is actually fine, as-is.

I’m posting this anyway, because I want to represent the process authentically as I go along.

And, at some point, I may realize what this piece means. Until then, you may see things in it that make sense to you. Or not.

I’m pleased with the visual logic of this, and – sometimes – that’s all I’m aiming for.

Besides, it’s the holiday season and I have a lot of projects to complete before Christmas! This is my favorite time of year, but it can also be the most hectic. And personally rewarding, too, since it’s a time to gather with friends and family. Happy holidays!

For more (far better) collages, see my Gallery pages, and visit my fine art website, Eibhlin.com. (My actual, legal name is Eibhlin, pronounced “Eileen.”)