2020 #9 A Doll's Life with LPC {by Autumn Clark}

2020 Topic 9: Collage It

Absolutely stunning layers with some wonderful painty adventures, and gorgeous contrasting layers - Autumn is a whizz at arranging these things so perfectly and with wonderful attention to detail on those finishing touches!
~ Keren, Leandra

Hi everyone, it's Autumn Clark from SewPaperPaint with you today, and I'd like to share with you a couple of mixed media cards inspired by the designer who sparked my passion for collage many, many years ago, Lynne Perrella.  I've been a fan for ages, particularly loving the complexity of her stamps with so many opportunities to focus on even the tiniest of details.  

This pair of cards came about because I wanted to get back to my stamping roots and an earthtone palette, which was my go to when I was introduced to Lynne's stamps and paper dolls so long ago.  

One of my favorite things to do is pick my color pool for a project.  I chose PaperArtsy Fresco Finish Chalk Acrylics in Nougat, Chocolate Pudding, Slate, Toad Hall, Winter Green, Midnight, Claret, Mahogany, Toffee and Caramel.  Yes, quite a lot of paints but I wanted to create a full collection of prints to work with for a while.  I used my 8x10" gelli plate and got to work...

I printed on ivory cardstock and book pages, which gave an awesome transfer effect (shown top right).  I used PaperArtsy Stencil {Sara Naumann} PA092 for subtle pattern and added some texture with an XL embossing folder, which I sanded to reveal some of the ivory card (as shown bottom right).  

I really wanted the star of my cards to be PaperArtsy {Lynne Perrella} Collection LPC042, with the papers serving as the stage.  And so I played and played and played until I had just the right arrangements that made me happy.  

Here is that amazing text transfer stitched in place.  I made a tag from my painted paper.  More sanding to add highlights. I used more book pages for brayering off between prints I was able to use it in my collages as well.

I added acetate butterflies, sticker text, wooden and chipboard cutouts.  I wanted the pair of cards to be similar in style, but also unique.

I really love the embossed painted paper and how the texture plays with my tears and wrinkled edges...  That's the beauty of collage for me: somehow making a random collection come together in unity, making art.  

Having not made an art doll in far too long, I thoroughly enjoyed playing with these stamps and paints!

So what techniques or colors have you perhaps forgotten that might bring life into your creating these days?  For me, no matter what, my love for collage remains as the crucial element of my work, but it is fun to revisit past affections and blend them with my ever evolving style.  Would you agree?  I still have my green prints and lots of leftover papers, so I think I shall have another play with a green doll!  

It's been a pleasure as always!  Stay safe and creative my friends!  Hugs, Autumn

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