BobBlast 532 - "Cheap Joe’s Workshop - Abstract & Collage Demo!"

Weekly BobBlast Issue 532
Cheap Joe’s Workshop Abstract & Collage Demo!

Welcome Back to Another BobBlast!

This Weekly BobBlast is about two techniques I use for adding collage to my abstract paintings. We filmed this demo at a Cheap Joe’s workshop in Boone, North Carolina, last May. Here are the techniques I used during the demo:

•Starting an abstract collage (also known as a non-objective mixed media painting)
•Sticking down the collage paper.

Let's talk about the GLUE first! Acrylic Gel Medium is the adhesive I use for gluing collage papers onto the painting surface. Since the glue is acrylic and water-based, the Holbein heavy body Artist Acrylic Paint are compatible with any of the water-based products. For me, this is the perfect combination for keeping my art archival. Plus, the gel medium will dry clear!

As promised, here are the two techniques I use to start an abstract collage:

First Technique: Brush on acrylic gel medium all over the gessoed surface. Then I press my collage papers into the surface, creating a graphic design with the collage pieces. Paint comes later, after several layers of gluing down collage papers.

Second Technique: Spread the acrylic gel medium on top of a dried acrylic painting - then press down with a brayer roller or squeegee the pieces of collage papers, creating another layer on top of the paint. More paint and more collage comes later.

A Great Tool: I use a silicon squeegee-type wedge, called a Princeton Catalyst to press down and flatten out the collage pieces. It also removes air bubbles as well as excess gel medium.

After the collage and adhesive has dried, I continue to paint on top. No problem with compatibility, as everything is water-based. Remember, the gel medium appears cloudy at first, but will dry clear!

When finished, the multiple layers of paint-collage-paint-collage is given a final coat of water-based varnish to ensure an overall, even sheen.

Try these two techniques!

Enjoyed Watching the Abstract Painting & Collage Demo?
Online Workshops Coming Up
•September 14-15, 2024
"Non-Objective Mixed Media Painting"
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Online Monthly Demos
•September 11, 2024
“Painting Carrot People”
•October 9, 2024
“Asymmetrical Composition”
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Thursday, September 12, 2024
11am -12:30pm PT
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Loosen Up! Workshop Coming Up
•September 16-20, 2024
In-Person, in Bob's Studio, Arroyo Grande, CA
Limited to 10 Painters!
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•September 24, 2024
•October 10, 2024
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Online Figure Workshop Coming Up!
•September 27-29, 2024
"Abstract Figurative"
Sponsored by the Sedona Arts Center
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Traveling Bob – In-Person Workshops!
•January 6-10, 2025
Abstract Acrylic Painting & Collage
Tanque Verde Ranch, Tucson, AZ
Sponsored by Madeline Island School of the Arts
contact 715-747-2054 or [email protected]
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•January 18-25, 2025
Tropical Escapaint! Loosen Up Painting Retreat in Mexico
Casa de Los Artistas
Boca de Tomatlan, 10 miles South of Puerto Vallarta 
Contact Robert Masla, (413) 335-4295
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Burridge Online Coaching
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