More on processes and experimenting

 As I get closer to finishing a composition, I typically do a couple common processes. I often need to do some final micro-cutting of the edges of the pieces I will use. After that, I paint the edges of the elements (so as cover-up the white inner portion of the paper. This is also why some people mistaken my work as being digital). Here's an element from the piece I have been working on (and that I posted a sketch of previously). I'm showing the back of the element as well, to show you the neutral gray paint that I use to paint the edges. I don't need to be too careful about the messy strokes, because they can be easily wiped off the front, as long as the paint is not dry (even then, it's not too difficult to clean up the image).

Another "process" that I was involved with on this evening in the studio, was "extracting" an isolated image of a bird from the main element. Here is the fuller version of the element in which you can see the birds flying (middle, right)...

I decided that I would like to use the bird, but realized it probably wouldn't work by leaving it attached. So I simply cut it out. The power of using that bird, is not only to match the other birds in size; but moreimportantly, to match in gray scale patina (it should also contribute to the overall integration of the composition, when complete). But this bird is SMALL, and I didn't want to lose it (I've done that before with small elements... in my "busy" studio). So I made a special place for it on a piece of foam core, and decided to give myself instructions (I was cracking myself up)...

By the way, I also painted the edges of this bird with gray paint. Here's an image in which you see the extracted bird (before micro-cutting and edge painting):

I thought I was getting ready to finalize the piece. But once I had painted the edges of the central element, and let it dry, I started experimenting again with different background elements... even though I thought I decided on the blue (shown above).

So I'm in a bit of a quandary now. Space/stellar background is always a good look (although I may do it too much). Gives the composition great depth. But I'm really liking the green building element, and am leaning toward using that (and maybe stellar behind that!). I think any of these potential composition s would be good... but now I have to decide (and I really thought I was already done deciding). It's certainly fun to experiment; and that part of the process that I love. But I do have some desire to get this piece done and move on to another. On the other hand, what's the rush? There is no rush. This is one of the reasons it is difficult to answer the question, "How long does it take you to do a collage"? I love the exploration and experimentation. And I am pretty stubborn about avoiding just doing a piece to get it done. I need to feel confident that I have done an "excellent" composition (at least in my mind). So we'll see how this all turns out. I'm really not sure, at this point. Stay tuned ;-)