What is an Assemblage?

Habitat

Mixed media assemblage, paper mache, acrylics,gold leaf 

People often ask me what an assemblage is. In the world of art, an assemblage can be a wide variety of expressions.

Wikipedia tells us. 

“Assemblage is an artistic form or medium usually created on a defined substrate that consists of three-dimensional elements projecting out of or from the substrate. It is similar to collage, a two-dimensional medium. It is part of the visual arts and it typically uses found objects, but is not limited to these materials. “

So in other words, an assemblage can come in many different forms. They could be any size and made up a an endless variety of items.  They can  be made out of household items, car parts, or paper, recycled items  and clothing or natural items, such as sticks and stones. 
I began making assemblages in 2022 when I took some of my finished collages and tore them up and added them to paper mache or cardboard bases. Even though I am doing many of the same techniques that I use for my framed work,it is a completely different experience to make these 3 D pieces. I have found a new creativity within myself as I work on them. When I am doing this type of work, working three dimensionally, my creative energy seems to flow from a different direction. The ideas often sujrprise me and the final piece is always a big surprise.

Many of my assemblages are made using recycled materisls, and boxes from my local junk store. I love to “shop” in my local recycle bin.

There are countless varieties of artist - made assemblages.

My friend, artist Gwen Waight, makes her fascinating assemblage work using a lot of unique items.

 Don't Give Up Hope by Gwen Waight 

Mixed media assemblage

My newest assemblage

I am a Gatherer 

vintage candy bucket, rice paper, acrylics,corrugated cardboard