30”x110” (original) enlarged to 50”x179”; photocopies; 2020. Courtesy of the artist.
FROM KOLAJ 32
Martha Chong Joins a Noble Tradition of Artists Tempted by Surreal Mysticism
For centuries, the Temptations of Saint Anthony have inspired artists who in turn inspired others. The story offers artists an opportunity to render surreal mysticism and to let their imaginations run wild. The subject lends itself well to collage. Laupahoehoe, Hawaii artist Marcha Chong tells the story of Saint Anthony in a monumental collage. Using black and white photocopies from books, Chong assembled a 30” tall and 110” wide collage that she photographed and printed 50”x179”. In Kolaj 32, we review this monumental collage and explore Chong’s process for making big work.
An article about Martha Chong’s Temptation of Saint Anthony appears in Kolaj 32. To see the complete issue, SUBSCRIBE to Kolaj Magazine or Get a Copy of the Issue.
The technique of photocopying source material, assembling a large collage, photographing and, and then printing it is a strategy for making large-scale collage. In doing this, the aesthetic feel of the original printed material combines with the look and feel of black & white photocopying.
30”x110” (original) enlarged to 50”x179”; photocopies; 2020. Courtesy of the artist.
An article about Martha Chong’s Temptation of Saint Anthony appears in Kolaj 32. To see the complete issue, SUBSCRIBE to Kolaj Magazine or Get a Copy of the Issue.
When Martha Chong was nine, she stole a book on the human brain from the library and started cutting pictures out of it; she’s been collaging ever since. Along with The Temptation of Saint Anthony, her projects include the now decade-long series, “The Times”, which uses only photographs from the daily New York Times. Chong’s work has been shown in group shows across the US, including Boston, San Francisco, and Lubbock, Texas. Her work has also been featured in the literary journal, ZYZZYVA. Martha Chong lives and works in Laupahoehoe, Hawaii. Learn more at www.marthachong.com.