Non-digital collages CreativeMindClass Blog

"I reside and work at Bristol UK and studied Illustration at Brighton UK. I've been an active artist and illustrator since 2013 with my work slowly changing over time from bright and colorful character work towards more abstract and process intensive work. I usually create art using a combination of drawing, collage, a mix of the two, as well as occasionally, 3D. I also self-publish a lot of zines and occasionally comics."

What would you say about your collage style?

"Primarily not digital" (though it's personal preference but both methods of work are just as appropriate as the other) and a lot of paper textures. I used to pieces using lots of vibrant shades, but I've been trying to be more considered and 'quieter' when it comes to my color choices in recent times. I put a lot of importance on shapes and composition too. My work tends to be somewhat playful in the sense that I think of the collage and drawing I do as playing, or an act of enjoyment."

What is the key to creating collages?

"It's hard to pick the one key to how I create illustrations as well as other art. The feeling of having fun playing, enjoyment, and joy is the primary reason I work. I always try to figure out ways to incorporate that in whatever I create. When I make art, I tell myself: 'If I'm not having fun creating this piece, then I shouldn't even be doing it, and I should come up with a different method'. More often than not with illustrations, I have found that to get the best outcome simplifying everything really helps. I often get bogged down with details or specific concepts or ideas, and then I have to take a look back, and reduce everything back to its essence. This can often apply equally to the content as it could to format."

"I made a piece in support of a very worthwhile project which was launched in the UK called Communitea. The project involved 55 artists like myself. invited to make a piece of work in response to our relationship with Chinese tradition. The work can be bought in the form of a poster at Roomfifty and all proceeds go to in saving the London Chinese Community Centre from being shut down and to combat the rise of anti-Asian hate."

See more of Ed's collages through Instagram as well as his website.