A comparison of adults' responses to collage versus drawing in an initial art-making session

Abstract

The goal of this systematic comparison of collage and drawing was to contribute to the sparse body of literature on the way individuals might respond to two materials commonly used in art therapy. Eight graduate and undergraduate university students who identified as non-artists completed two tasks, one using drawing materials and one using collage. They also answered questions about the art-making experiences related to the use of the two media. Participants' responses to each medium revealed possible concerns and assumptions regarding these materials that art therapists can consider when working with new clients. The findings revealed that participants felt that drawing was more personal and less constrained by the limitations of time and space imposed when using ready-made images in collage.