In the previous post, I discussed places where you might find things to use in your assemblages and mixed media art. Here are some more ideas.
In the trash. I frequently visit some friends who live out in the country. They burn their trash rather than having it picked up. In their trash pile, I often find items that are only partially burned, giving them a unique and interesting texture and appearance.
Another way to pick up “treasures” is simply by going on a walk- through the woods, in a park, in town, along the beach etc. Notice those rusty pop cans, old pieces of wood, bottle caps, weathered cardboard and paper etc. Pick them up and take them home. Help save the environment while building your stash
I’ve also heard other artists talk about visiting their local landfill to collect items. I have never done this and don’t even know if it’s an option in my city, but it may be something you want to look into. If you do decide to get into “trash collecting,” be sure to wear whatever protective gear you need to stay safe- impervious clothes, gloves, good shoes etc.
Thrift stores or yard sales. This is one of my favorite ways to collect assemblage items. I never know what I’ll find- picture frames, books, jewelry, silk flowers, fabric, buttons, metal hardware, toys, clocks or old computers that can be taken apart.
Your friends and family. I was very excited a few weeks ago when my mom, instead of throwing them out, gave me a small bag filled with little pieces of fabric she had collected over the years. If you have plenty of room to store things, ask your family and friends to save things for you. Let them know what types of items you are looking for; otherwise you may end up with a lot of stuff you won’t be able to use.