Jan Stovall

My mixed-media collage practice arose out of an appreciation for color and interest in paper. Collage appeals to me because I like the idea of making art from something that already exists, giving it new meaning by simply cutting, tearing and pasting. I enjoy the creative process of collecting found objects and materials, sorting and organizing them based on color, texture or image, and combining the pieces to bring order out of chaos. I find the juxtaposition of random images intriguing, and ideas often emerge as the collage materializes. Aside from using found papers in my work, I often paint, stamp, or stain paper to complete a piece of work.

Originally from North Carolina, I have lived in Takoma Park since 1991. A recently renovated studio in my back yard provides a home for my collectibles and ephemera that contribute to my creativity.