Abstract Collage Landscapes

Join Carol Nelson in a fun & creative experience. Create gorgeous collage papers from materials you probably never heard of.  We will NOT be cutting pictures from a magazine!

Where every torn piece becomes a tree (or a cloud... or a unicorn)

Our next workshop is September 27th & 28th 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

Cost: $320 for both days + $10 supply fee

Supplies Provided by Instructor:

Various papers including deli paper, red rosin paper, butcher paper, Tyvek, aluminum foil, construction paper, art specialty papers, gloss medium with applicator tip, coffee filters, styrofoam plates, texture products from Home Depot, and use of stencils, embossing folders, and squeegees.

Student supply list:

   Your favorite FLUID acrylic paints.  Carol uses Golden Fluid Acrylics. 

  • Carol uses Carbon Black, Titanium White, Turquoise Phthalo, Quinacridone Magenta, and Azo Gold   (formerly called Quinacridone Nickel Azo Gold).  A 1 oz bottle of these will last a long time.

  • One (or more) substrates (suggested sizes are 11x14”, 12x12”, 16x20”)

  • A 3” foil lid from a yogurt cup

  • Can of shaving cream (not gel) from the Dollar Store

  • Electric glue gun and glue stick if you have one, or borrow instructor’s

  • Gel medium (matte or gloss) or similar adhesive

  • Any collage ephemera you happen to have - optional

The usual stuff:

  • short handled nylon brushes (3/4” flat, and small detail brush)

  • scissors, water container, spray water bottle, palette to mix colors,

  • 1” palette knife, paper towels, spray bottle of alcohol (optional)

Discover the liberating world of abstract collage where your creativity knows no bounds! This transformative workshop takes you beyond traditional collage techniques, empowering you to create stunning abstract compositions without fear or hesitation.

Many students find themselves paralyzed when faced with their beautiful handmade collage materials, worried about making the "wrong" choice or ruining their creation. That's where Carol's revolutionary NO FEAR sandwich technique comes to the rescue! This game-changing method eliminates uncertainty and gives you the confidence to dive in fearlessly, knowing every decision leads to artistic discovery.

You'll begin by creating an impressive array of unique collage materials using exciting techniques including gloss medium resist paper, crushed and embossed aluminum foil, dreamy shaving cream paper, elegant hot glue designs enhanced with metal leaf, intricate inscribed patterns on textured surfaces, and specially prepared Tyvek. These aren't ordinary papers—they're your personal palette of textures and colors.

Working on your choice of substrate (cradled panel, canvas, or canvas board), you'll learn to trust your instincts and embrace the unexpected. Leave with a stunning abstract collage and newfound artistic courage!