The world of collage art offers a fascinating blend of creativity and expression. Petra Zehner, a German-born artist living in Paris, exemplifies this with her unique approach to collaging. In this blog post, we delve into her journey, her inspirations, and her artistic process, shedding light on the vibrant yet often misunderstood realm of collage art.
A Journey from Literature to Art
Petra’s path to becoming a collage artist was not straightforward. With a background in literature and history, she initially found art through an exploration of personal interests. After leaving Germany, she discovered that her degree in literature wasn’t as practical abroad, leading her to pursue the artistic inclinations she always harbored alongside literature.
The Allure of Collage
Collage became Petra’s artistic calling, offering a medium where she could seamlessly integrate her skills in photography and graphic design. Initially inspired by the routine work of graphic design, she sought something more expressive and personal. Collage provided this freedom, merging her love for photography with the tactile satisfaction of creating layered works from vintage and found images.
The Creative Process
Petra’s work is characterized by a thoughtful, meandering process. She spends substantial time searching for images that resonate with her, ensuring they are copyright-free. The creation of a collage often begins with an idea that evolves unexpectedly, resulting in artworks that diverge from their initial concepts. This fluid creative process emphasizes the journey of discovery through art.
Themes of Identity and Belonging
Much of Petra’s work revolves around themes of identity and belonging. As someone who has lived abroad for a significant portion of her life, these themes resonate deeply with her personal experiences. Through her collages, Petra explores the interplay between past and present, inviting viewers to ponder their own stories and identities.
Not Just Child’s Play: The Art of Collaging
Collage, often perceived as a simple craft, can be a formidable art form. Petra emphasizes the need for the art community and the public to recognize collage as a legitimate and profound artistic expression. Referencing renowned artists who have embraced collage, she advocates for its recognition as fine art.
Paris and the Collage Collective
While Petra’s current work isn’t heavily influenced by the Parisian setting, she has significantly engaged with the city’s artistic community. She founded the Paris Collage Collective in 2018 to connect and inspire fellow collage artists, facilitating global creative exchanges.
The Intersection of AI and Art
Embracing technological advancements, Petra has started exploring the intersection of AI and art. AI-generated images provide new possibilities for collage artists, offering copyright-free materials to incorporate into their works. While the advent of AI poses challenges, Petra believes in adapting to these changes to preserve artistic integrity.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Community
Despite the challenges faced by collage artists, such as market limitations and evolving digital technologies, Petra remains committed to her craft. Her passion for collage is about more than creating; it’s about building a supportive community and encouraging others to unleash their creativity.
Looking Ahead
Petra continues to innovate and share her work. She is currently organizing an exhibition with over 400 artists from various countries, showcasing the diverse potential of the medium. This global effort reflects her dedication to fostering connections in the art world. Collage art is a rich field full of potential for artistic expression and personal discovery. For more information you can check out her website: https://petrazehner.com/ or follow her on instagram here! Petra Zehner’s work and her insights into the process reveal the profound depth behind this vibrant art form. Whether you’re an artist yourself or just an admirer, there’s much to learn and appreciate in the layered visions of collage.
