Using Found Objects in Assemblage Paintings

This project works best with acrylic and oil paints, in my experience. Feel free to experiment with your own mediums when you're curious because you might find something works better for you.

Before beginning this project, you of course need to start a "found object" collection. Found objects are defined by wikipedia.com as the following:

"A found object, in an artistic sense, indicates the use of an object which has not been designed for an artistic purpose, but which exists for another purpose already. Found objects may exist either as utilitarian, manufactured items, or things (including, at times, dead bodies) which occur in nature. In both cases the objects are discovered by the artist or musician to be capable of being employed in an artistic way, and are designated as "found" to distinguish them from purposely created items used in the art forms."

Creating your found object collection doesn't have to be a complicated process. A suggestion: use this opportunity to go out on an artist date. As difficult as it may seem sometimes to figure out what to do on artist dates, here's a good opportunity to accomplish two goals on one trip.

When you first start out with these type of assemblage paintings, it can be very overwhelming and that feeling with squelch the creative process. These types of creative blocks can be very difficult to overcome, so it's important to practice preventative techniques beforehand. Start with a small project first, like a 4x4 piece or 6x6 inch piece of stretched canvas or canvas board. Then, when you feel confident, work your way up to the larger sizes.

In addition to your found objects, collect magazine images and interesting text. Another good source for these materials are junk mail, brochures, pamphlets and leaflets.

If your piece of canvas isn't already primed, be sure to do so before starting your project. Determine the theme of your piece and gather all of your pieces. You'll also need sponge brushes, acrylic finish, newspaper, water and paper towels before you get started.

There's going to be a lot of layering throughout the course of your project. If you're uncomfortable about layering paint and don't have a lot of practice doing so, let each layer dry completely before applying the next one. When you're confidence starts to build, you'll have an appreciation for letting the paint stay a bit wet between layers so the colors can blend and create a new look.

Okay, now that you have all your supplies and an understanding about what the process is, let's begin:

Step 1: cover over the entire piece with one solid color
Step 2: in the bottom right corner, place a large found object directly into the paint (adding acrylic finish to the back for added security if needed)
Step 3: using another color, paint along the edge of the object
Step 4: on the bottom left corner, add a smaller element directly into the paint and layer it slightly over the first object (you'll need extra acrylic for this step)
Step 5: using a third color, paint over the edges of the object
Step 6: take some of the interesting text and adhere a phrase, a single word or a combination of letters you like in the upper left hand area of the piece
Step 7: using a fourth color, paint along the edges of the letters
Step 8: blot the brush into all of the colors used in this piece (without mixing them) and dab the brush along the edge of the entire piece
Step 9: set aside to dry completely
Step 10: apply one or two coats of the acrylic finish to seal everything in

You're done! Next time you create this project, consider working a little larger or using colors a completely different shade than you used for this piece. For example, if you used dark colors for this piece then try using light colors for your next one.
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