Cut with the Kitchen Knife: a Brief History of DADA collage and technique with Lindsey Caputo

"Cut with the Kitchen Knife" is an immersive introduction to the art of collage, assemblage, and photomontage, rooted in the rebellious spirit of the DADA movement. In this class, we’ll explore the techniques of combining found images, poetry, and various materials to create dynamic compositions that challenge traditional notions of art. Through hands-on projects, you’ll experiment with layering, juxtaposition, and visual storytelling, unlocking your creative potential in unconventional ways.

We’ll dive into the history of the DADA movement, born as an anti-art, anti-establishment reaction to the chaos of World War I. From early collage techniques to the development of assemblage and photomontage, this class will guide you through the evolution of these practices and their lasting impact on contemporary art.

By the end of the course, you’ll not only have a deeper understanding of DADA’s disruptive history but also a portfolio of your own mixed-media creations that reflect its daring, experimental nature.

About the Instructor: Lindsey Caputo

Materials: 

Found ephemera (recipes, newspaper clippings, photos, etc.)

Magazines (any genre)

Newspapers (all points of view, the globe or the post)

Exacto Knives

Scissors

Pencils

Cutting Mat

18x24 mixed media paper

Modge Podge Matte