For the previous post, go to Found Object Art: Luke 8:14 Assemblage pt. 3
I found an image of Jesus in the public domain on www.marysrosaries.com. I desaturated it and increased the contrast in MS Paint and then printed it out.
Since images are usually flat, it can be challenging to use them in assemblage art. I added interest by tearing the edges and coloring a few select areas red, but I needed a way to give it dimension. I tried framing it with various items but decided to keep it simple and adhere it to a piece of black cardboard. I added dimension by going around the top and bottom with wire.
The cross was made from cardstock that I painted. I added a punch of color by putting a red heart, cut out of corrugated cardboard, in the center. Originally I had planned to use a wooden cross that I found at a second hand store for a quarter, but decided I needed it for another project. 
The left side was a challenge. I tried placing various items in the space and moving things around. Finally I looked at my inspiration scripture to see if I could pull something out to highlight. How about an eye, to represent “recovering of sight to the blind?” No, I don’t think so. Finally, I hit upon the idea of making a “broken heart” and a healed heart. The design concept seemed too simple, in a way, but the colors and texture made it work with the rest of the art.
The Roman crucifixion nail was shaped out of homemade Air Dry Clay. To make it, I more or less followed a recipe I found online which called for 3 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon white glue. After the nail was dry, I dabbed on some texturizing medium and colored it with acrylic paints.
My color theme is very simple- red, black and white with a touch of gold. I’m not sure why most of my scripture assemblages end up in this color scheme. I don’t plan it that way but I guess it’s one way to make my collection more cohesive.
I learn so much from each piece of art I create. I learn about new techniques and products and get ideas for future projects, but I also research and learn about my subject matter. For example, before using, A bruised reed will He not break (from Matthew 12:20). I researched the word “reed” to make sure I had the definition right and also read some sermon commentaries on it.
It took several months for this piece to come together as I pondered and thought about how to make it work and looked for the right objects. Here’s a tip: You can create a lot of art if you always keep 2 or 3 projects going at the same time. That way if you get bored or stuck on one project, you can work on something else.