Non-digital collages – The CreativeMindClass Blog

"I live and work within Bristol UK and studied Illustration at Brighton UK. I've been working as an artist and illustrator since 2013, with my focus slowly shifting through the years, from vibrant and colorful character work to more abstracted and intensive work. I usually create art with a mix of collage, drawing, mix of the two, as well as occasionally, 3D. I also self-publish many zines, and occasionally comics."

What would you say about your collage style?

"Primarily non-digital" (though this is a personal choice, both traditional and digital approaches to work are equally appropriate as the other) with lots of paper texture. I used to make pieces using lots of vibrant shades, but I've been trying to be more mature and contemplative with my colors in recent time. I have a strong focus on the composition of shapes and patterns also. Most of my work is fairly playful as I see the collage and drawing I do as an act of fun, or an exercise of fun."

What's the secret to making your collages?

"It's hard to pinpoint the one key to how I create illustrations as well as other art. A sense of fun, joy, and play is important in the way I create work. I always try to find ways to incorporate that in whatever I'm creating. I always tell myself 'If I'm not having fun doing this specific piece, I shouldn't even be doing it, and I should find another way to approach it'. In the majority of illustrations, I have found that to get the best result, simplifying everything is a huge help. I often get bogged down on details, or specific concepts or ideas, and then I have to take a step back to simplify things down to its basic essence. It is often the case that this applies equally to content as it can to shape."

"I made a piece to support a truly worthwhile initiative that was recently launched in the UK known as Communitea. 55 artists , including me, were requested to create a work of art in response to our connection to Chinese cultural heritage. It can now be purchased in print form on Roomfifty and all proceeds go towards helping in saving the London Chinese Community centre from closing and fight the growing tide of anti-Asian hate."

Check out more collages from Ed on Instagram and his website.