Mini-Collage Studies
Mini collages are more than just small projects. They’re a way to practice big ideas—color, value, composition, and design—in a low-pressure format. Everything you experimented with in this workshop can be carried into your painting practice,
whether you work abstractly, realistically,
or somewhere in between.
Day 1: Color & Painted Papers
We’ll dive into color by working with a limited palette. You’ll learn how to expand those colors into a broad, sophisticated range by mixing tints, tones, neutrals, and value shifts.
Then we’ll use those colors to create a stack of richly painted collage papers—full of variety.
To finish the day, you’ll play a fun mini composition game! We'll arrange scraps into quick designs. It’s fast, fun, and shows just how many different directions a
single idea can go.
Day 2: Composition, Collage & Cropping
With your painted papers ready, we’ll shift into collage-making. You’ll cut shapes, lay them out in multiple arrangements, and explore how design changes with every shift. We’ll use cropping tools to discover stronger compositions and refine your work. By the end, you’ll have several finished mini collages—each one a surprise, a discovery, and a step forward in your artistic process.
You’ll walk away with:
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A richer, more nuanced understanding of value and color
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A toolkit of composition strategies you can use in any medium
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A stack of mini collages to spark new ideas and larger works
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The confidence to work quickly, make bold choices, and enjoy the process
Why Mini Collages?
Working small and in multiples builds confidence, momentum, and freedom. Instead of getting stuck on one “perfect” piece, you’ll discover the joy of experimenting, loosening up, and creating a series of ideas to keep your practice fresh.
What’s Included
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2 days of guided instruction (3 hrs/day)
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A folder of Workshop Notes
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Paint, brushes, and collage papers
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Cropping/viewfinder tools
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A fun, supportive environment that encourages experimentation and discovery
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YOU DON'T HAVE TO BRING ANYTHING - Just excitement and a willingness to let go and learn!
What to Bring
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A notebook/sketchbook for notes
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Optional: a sack lunch/snacks
When: This is a two-day class
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Tuesday, TBD
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Thursday, TBD
Who: Advanced beginner and Intermediate artists
Class Size: Limited to 6 students for personalized attention
Cost: $135
Where: Annie's Home Studio, Portland OR
* Please note that my teaching classroom is located downstairs and may not be convenient for all visitors.
Ready to Register? Have Questions?
Please email me at annie@anniesalness.com for more information or to register.
Payment options: Venmo, PayPal, or check (details provided upon registration)
Space is limited—sign up today!
