Elke's collages seem to have such sparkle, I love the textural look and little ornate accents here and there. She mixes the right amount of collage in her art journaling so that it doesn't look too "scrapbooky," a term I think I just invented. Read on for a tip on how she makes her collages look aged and warm!

Name (Real or Screename): Elke Glendenning
URL (Blog, Website): http://www.flickr.com/photos/elkemay/
Location (Where are you from?): San Francisco Bay Area, California

Q: Describe your work in 10 words or less.
A: Mixed media collage with found and gathered bits.

Q: What do you like to work with (magazines, photographs, vintage)? Be specific!
A: I collect old books, magazines, tissue paper, sheet music and paper at the recycling center. I like to add color with acrylic paints, gel pens and water soluble oil pastels. I've become a big fan of the old pencil!!  I use stamps and ink.  I like to sew on pieces with my sewing machine.  I love rub on type and old postage stamps. I use my photographs. Just learned about packing tape transfers—super fun! And the final magic—walnut oil to make things look aged and warm!

Q: How long have you been creating collages and what made you start?
A: I started making collages about a year ago... I was going through a rough time and a good friend introduced me to art journaling—combining the narrative of my life with images and art. I become hooked instantly, and now I can't stop! It is so freeing to work in a journal and not have the pressure of creating a "piece of art" to hang up. It's where the magic happens.

Q: Are you solely an artist, or do you work in another profession?
A: Ah, I wish! I work as a physical therapist. The art making is just for me.