NEW DIRECTION: COLLAGE

The elements used in these collages were drawn primarily from a collection of very old documents, books, magazines, and newspapers, hand-written notes, receipts, sheet music, and more, saved over the last 200 or so years by my practical, Yankee family. While many of the artifacts that have been passed along are too sentimantally valuable to repurpose, the sheer volume of what I would label as ‘ordinary ephemera’ is now old enough, interesting enough, and worthy of being seen in a new light.

As a designer, typographer, publication art director and managing editor, I’ve always had a reverence for the printed word. The majority of newer books and magazines that line my studio shelves appear to have never been read, but that is not the case. It’s just how I handle things that I value. The oldest published pieces are really no worse off than when I acquired them. So, why would I cut or tear into these ancient treasures, some of which are nearly as old as our Constitution? Because like everything else, they’ve passed through generations of hands, enjoying long, well-used lives.

As a rule traditional New Englanders have always held onto, and used everything completely up, and while far from needy, ‘my people’ refused to waste anything that had an ounce of life remaining in it. Books were no exception, especially in this family of readers. Many of the oldest books have failed. With sun-beaten, leather spines crumbling and full signatures barely holding on, I’ve chosen to resuscitate them. Reuse and repurpose. Nothing wasted. A concept, and a process to which my ancestors would no doubt have given full approval.

  - JT April, 2025

NOTE: While some collages have moved on to private collections, new collages are in the works. If you’re interested in pricing, and current availability, simply email the studio.

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