Learn the papier collé technique and discover how artists created abstract masterpieces from everyday objects.
Join artist Helen Friend to explore the work of Ben Nicholson, Margaret Mellis, and Anwar Jalal Shemza, as seen in The Shape of Things: Still Life in Britain.
During the workshop, you’ll learn how to create your own papier collé (a form of collage) artworks, drawing inspiration from Synthetic Cubism. We’ll kick things off with some fun warm-up drawing exercises, where you’ll get to practice sketching still life arrangements using simple techniques.
Afterwards, you’ll gather objects and elements inspired by the exhibition’s still life compositions to create your own collage artwork. You’ll learn the art of “drawing with scissors” as you cut out simple object silhouettes from collage papers. We’ll provide examples from Pablo Picasso’s Papier Collé and the exhibition to spark your creativity.
Using permanent markers, fine liners, and white gel pens, you’ll outline shapes and define key forms in your composition. Then, you’ll add texture and pattern by layering collage papers, including newspaper print and patterned papers. To make your artwork pop, you can even enhance coloured sections with acrylic paint.
Unleash your creativity and take home your very own papier collé masterpiece!
During this session, there will be a self-service tea and coffee cart with a selection of delicious biscuits.
Artist educator - Helen Friend
Helen is an inspirational and accomplished artist and teacher who is passionate about the arts. She has always immersed herself fully in the creative world, working in both galleries and schools, as well as creating her own work.
Helen has taught art in a range of secondary schools to all levels and abilities. She has recently left a full-time teaching position as Head of Art to focus on her own art practice of ceramics.
The biggest influence on Helen’s own work has been nature and landscape. She uses the process of Raku, where the clay comes together with fire and water to produce dramatic and unexpected results.
