Cut-Out Melody

Use the cut-out technique to explore the silhouette of a musical instrument. This prompt allows you to layer different papers and textures underneath the cut-out to create a rich, textured collage.

By creating ‘open shapes’ in your collage, it gives you a unique and new way to experiment with your composition. You can get a better sense of how things will appear, without having to commit to cutting a particular piece or shape.

Steps:

  1. Draw the silhouette of a musical instrument, aiming to have some larger shapes that you can remove (e.g., the lid of a grand piano, the body of a guitar, even piano keys).

  2. Carefully cut out the shape with an exacto knife.

  3. Select various papers and textures to layer underneath the cut-out.

  4. Arrange and rearrange the layers until you find a mix you like.

  5. Secure the layers using glue or tape, ensuring the collage has depth and contrast.

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Song Inspiration… Randomized