Non-digital collages - The CreativeMindClass Blog

"I reside and work within Bristol UK and studied Illustration at Brighton UK. I've been an active artist and illustrator since 2013, with my focus slowly shifting through the years, from vibrant and vivid character designs to more abstracted and heavy work. I tend to make work with a mix of sketching, collage a mix of the two, occasionally 3D. I also make and self-publish lots of zines as well as sometimes comics."

What would you say about the style of your collage?

"Primarily non-digital (though it's personal preference to be honest, traditional and digital ways of working are as relevant as one another) that includes a variety of paper textures. I used to make pieces using lots of vibrant colours, however I've tried to be more thoughtful and quiet using my colors over the last few time. I have a strong emphasis on composition and shapes as well. My work tends to be somewhat playful in the sense that I see the collage and drawing I make as a form of play, or an activity of fun."

What is the key to making your collages?

"It's difficult to choose a single 'key' to my method of creating illustrations, as well as other work. An attitude of enjoyment or joy is important in the way I create work. I always try to find ways of injecting that into whatever I'm making. I always tell myself 'If I'm not having fun doing this specific piece, I shouldn't make it and I need to look for a new way to approach it'. In the majority of illustration projects, I find that for the most optimal result, simplifying everything is a huge help. I often get bogged down on details, or specific ideas or points then have to step back to simplify things back to its essence. It is often the case that this applies as much to content as it can to format."

"I made a piece in support of a very worthwhile project which was launched in the UK called Communitea. 55 artists , including me, were asked to create a piece of work in response to the connection we have with Chinese tradition. The work can now be purchased in the form of a poster at Roomfifty where all the profits go towards helping save the London Chinese Community centre from closure and combat the rise of hate against Asians."

Explore more collages by Ed via Instagram and his site.