Knoxville Museum of Art played host to a workshop celebrating World Collage Day 2024 on Saturday, May 11. Local artists Shelley Mangold and Jean Hess, along with A1LabArts board member Bob Thompson, organized the event which was open to participants of all artistic levels. The workshop was inspired by Kolaj Magazine’s annual international celebration of collage, taking place on the second Saturday of May each year.
Shelley Mangold was inspired to bring the celebration to Knoxville after attending a similar workshop in Lisbon, Portugal the previous year. The workshop provided a creative space for individuals to come together, share stories through collage, and celebrate the art form. All materials were provided and the event was free to attend, making it accessible to anyone who wanted to participate. No previous experience in collage-making was required, making it an inclusive and welcoming event for all.
Although the event was free, participants had the opportunity to donate to Bridge Refugee Services, showing support for the local community. The initiative brought World Collage Day to Knoxville allowed for a day of artistic expression and community connection, highlighting the power of art to bring people together.
