Introduction to Contemporary Collage

Discover the creative world of collage in this welcoming, beginner-friendly workshop.

Join mixed media artist and collage facilitator Agnieszka Zając for an inspiring introduction to contemporary collage. The session begins with a short talk exploring the history of collage, a variety of materials that can be used, and a range of simple tools and techniques to help you get started.

You will then create your own unique collage in a relaxed, intuitive workshop guided by imagination, play and experimentation. No previous experience is needed—this session is all about enjoying the creative process, exploring different materials and discovering your own visual language.

By the end of the workshop, you'll take home your finished artwork, along with fresh ideas and inspiration to continue your collage journey.

What is Collage?

Collage is an artistic technique that involves creating new artwork by assembling and combining a variety of materials onto a flat surface. These materials can include paper, photographs, magazines, fabric, found objects and other everyday items. The beauty of collage lies in its ability to transform disparate elements into something entirely new and personal.

What You'll Learn

• A brief history of collage and its development as an art form
• Materials and tools commonly used in collage-making
• Basic collage techniques and creative approaches
• How to experiment confidently and develop your own style
• Ways to continue exploring collage at home

Who Is It For?

This workshop is perfect for:

• Complete beginners
• Anyone looking to reconnect with their creativity
• Artists interested in exploring mixed media techniques
• People seeking a relaxing and mindful creative activity

All materials will be provided unless otherwise stated.

Reserve your place today and begin your creative collage journey!

Facilitator Bio

Agnieszka Zając is a mixed media artist, collagist, author and trained Collage Care The: Method™ facilitator. Originally from Poland, she now lives in Plymouth on the South Coast of England.

With a Master's degree in Human Studies and training in art therapy, counselling, mental health and visual arts, Agnieszka combines creativity and wellbeing through a holistic and inclusive approach.

Passionate about making collage accessible to all, she explores its healing, cathartic and empowering potential while encouraging collaboration and community connection. She has brought collage into schools, youth centres, museums, streets and community spaces across Plymouth and beyond.

A strong advocate for neurodiversity, Agnieszka believes that "Art is for everyone."

She is the founder of the Plymouth Collage Collective, curator of the Polaroids Collage Club, author of Soul Garden, and creator of the ongoing Why Collage? project, featuring collages and reflections from more than 150 international collage artists.

Inspiration: Influential Collage Artists

Kurt Schwitters
Often referred to as the "King of Collage", Schwitters is widely celebrated for pioneering modern collage techniques. He famously incorporated found materials collected from everyday life into his artworks.

Fred Tomaselli
Known for his richly layered mixed-media works, Tomaselli combines imagery from books and magazines with plants, pharmaceuticals and other materials to create visually complex compositions that blur the boundaries between collage and painting.