What Is Assemblage?
Assemblage is an art technique popularized by Dadaists and Surrealists in the early 20th century. It involves creating artwork by assembling various objects into a three-dimensional composition.
Assemblage as an art technique flourished in the early 20th century, when artists began breaking traditional boundaries and experimenting with new forms. Assemblage emerged when artists decided to push beyond traditional boundaries by combining different materials into unique sculptural forms. By layering different textures and materials in space, you create an assemblage, a work that brings elements of painting and sculpture together in a striking relief.
Assemblage is a great technique for recycling found objects into artworks, giving them an emotional and historical dimension.
What Is Collage?
Collage is a technique for creating compositions by gluing different materials, such as paper, photographs, or fabric, onto a surface. The process often relies on chance and spontaneity.
Traditional collage is usually flat, with materials such as photographs or paper smoothly glued to a backing. But intentionally breaking up that flatness, for example by crumpling paper or layering textures, moves your collage toward assemblage and creates a striking relief.
Don’t try to keep everything perfectly flat and smooth. Imperfections are what create interesting depth and texture!
Can Assemblage Be Combined with Collage?
Absolutely! Combining assemblage and collage lets you playfully move between flat and three-dimensional elements, adding visual appeal and depth to your work.
Strong glues, such as super glue, bond materials quickly and securely, allowing you to make the most of spontaneous creativity. By combining collage’s chance element with assemblage’s spatial quality, your work gains a whole new dimension and depth.
Try experimenting with unusual materials like fabric, wire, or natural elements such as dried flowers. The result is sure to pleasantly surprise you!
What Glue Works Best for Collage and Assemblage?
For collages and assemblages, we recommend fast-drying glues that bond materials right away, so you can work without unnecessary waiting.
Now you know how to bring these two techniques together. Don’t be afraid to experiment, try new materials, and most of all, enjoy the creative process. If you make something interesting, feel free to send us a photo. We’d love to see your work!
Looking for more tutorials?
Explore our full educational series here – or go straight to the next lesson.