Getting Snippy!

More than a dozen Timebankers got snippy with each other the weekend of October 10th during our first collage event, held at the American Legion in Downtown Silver Spring. Collage artist and fellow Timebanker John Rose Gentry guided participants in the art of collage making, including outlining various techniques for selecting and placing materials to best achieve your desired outcome. He also shared with us a number of framed collages he has completed over the years, giving us the chance to see just how focus and determination yield true results.

The group of budding collage artists was extra lucky that John had so many supplies on hand that he was willing to bring and share with the group. Besides the necessities like scissors and glue, John brought several boxes of magazines, and not just the standard National Geographic and Better Homes & Gardens, but also some Time magazines from the 1950s as well as specialty books of hundreds of different images, craft paper punches and more. John also rescues old photos, sheet music, letters and other materials he finds at flea markets and unique outlets to bring a one-of-a-kind quality to his art. The possibilities were endless, and we found it difficult to limit ourselves to the two-hour window we had!

Timebanker Meg Kneisl said she was impressed with John’s large collection of magazines, calendars and books for collaging. “It was a fun afternoon with good conversation to accompany our artistic endeavors,” Meg said, adding, “Thanks for hosting a fabulous event, John and Alissa!” 

“Take a chill pill’

Each participant went home with at least one original artwork suitable for framing — and to act as inspiration for future creative endeavors. If you have a talent you’d like to share or an event you’d like to host, contact the Events Team today!