Beyond the Page

Before the words, there are images.

My collage art is the visual language of the stories I love, and how I see the world in color. These pieces are layered, textured, and built by hand, then finished digitally in Photoshop when the piece calls for it.

The cover of The Vanish Act began as a physical collage on my kitchen table. Since sharing it, I've had a lot of people ask about the process—so here it is.

It starts with a photograph. I source these from public domain websites and stock image pages where photographers and illustrators from around the world share their work. When something speaks to me, I purchase the rights to it. Occasionally I use my own photography as well. I also love putting my own spin on stories and characters that inspire me.

Once I have the base image, I bring it into Photoshop and convert it into a barebones outline. From there I select collage pieces that resonate with the subject matter and begin layering them on top, fitting everything together like a puzzle until the image says what I need it to say.

On this page: the making of The Vanish Act cover, and a selection of finished work. Some of these are available as digital prints on my Etsy store.