What is Collage Art?

Collage is an artistic technique where various materials such as photographs, paper, fabric, and found objects are assembled and glued onto a surface to create a new composition. Pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque during Cubism, collage became central to both Dada and Surrealism. The technique allows artists to create unexpected juxtapositions, challenge traditional notions of art-making, and incorporate everyday materials into fine art. Hannah Hoch pioneered photomontage collage, while Max Ernst developed collage into a distinctly Surrealist practice. Contemporary artists continue pushing collage into new territories through both physical and digital approaches. Explore collage artworks featured on Surrealism Today.