Mitzi Faye

Collage is a technique used by many artists at some time in their creative investigations. I returned to collage and developed this particular interpretation during a recent low point in my life

With a long career as a working artist behind me, I needed to explore a path into 'another reality'.

I call this work: COLLAGE PAINTING

These Alternative Realities have No pre-conceived themes, messages or thoughts.

Using only paper materials at hand...magazines, catalogues and such, I choose to tear and cut seemingly at random. When a composition emerges and I sense that it is finished, I discard all remaining pieces of paper and the source material. I keep no stock. I do not add 'my hand' to any part for either definition or enhancement.

I begin anew each time.

Because I have no theme, message or indeed no idea of what will emerge, I give no title...only a number at first. When I then have time to absorb the image, does a title or theme emerge.

At age 92, I did not expect this to happen at this stage of my life.

I find it quite liberating.

I began at age 10 in New York City attending all and every art/craft class taught...this was in the 1930s...I am now 92..I have worked free-lance, designing for fabric and paper firms and advertising agencies. I had my own business designing and manufacturing a line of children's clothes...all the while continuing with drawing and painting...exploring techniques and themes.

Since beginning my exploration into this form of collage, I have had 3 exhibitions in Cleveland, Ohio and a small exhibition in New York