“My collage art is inspired by a blend of artistic traditions, using pieces taken from art history.”
In his collage art, Ray Beldner, featured by Artwork Archive, takes inspiration from art history books, auction catalogs, and modern magazines.
Inspired by the sculptural styles of Henry Moore and Jean Arp, Ray is fascinated by their unique shapes and textures. He breaks these forms down to create eye-catching collages that challenge traditional art ideas.
Ray’s experience as a sculptor and new media artist, with exhibitions both in the U.S. and abroad, highlights his talent for combining intuition with raw materials. His collages grow from simple layered designs into larger assemblages and sculptures, reflecting the connection between his instincts and the materials he works with.
Through his art, Ray Beldner wants viewers to enjoy the excitement of creativity and explore the complexities and contradictions of visual beauty.
Artwork Archive spoke with Ray Beldner about his creative process, his advice for fellow artists, and how Artwork Archive helps him manage his studio and art career.
You can view his work on Discovery and learn more about his art practice below.

What does your creative process look like?
All my collage images are from modern and historical artworks I’ve discovered in books, magazines, and auction catalogs.
I’ve scanned hundreds of images to build a digital library that I can choose from and print whenever I need. I’ve also scanned images of modernist sculptures that I laser-cut out of plywood.
A new piece starts by layering various collage materials on shaped wood pieces until I find a color scheme and pattern I like. My process is intuitive; I work quickly, arranging and layering different shapes while experimenting with compositions. I keep going until I find one that feels right, has interesting negative space, and suggests movement.
Can you share more about the inspiration behind your recent collage works and how they differ from your previous conceptual projects?
I draw inspiration from art, art history, and artists.
I am especially touched by their work’s physical and sensory qualities, such as classic paintings and sculptures’ colors, textures, and shapes.
All artists are influenced by other art, and instead of hiding that influence, I embrace it by directly using and incorporating parts of their work into my own.
If a collage combines different forms and ideas to create something new, then all art can be seen as a “collage.”
My recent collage work differs from my earlier conceptual work because I don’t begin with a specific idea or final product. Instead, I use basic materials like paper and wood to play around. This process explores color, shape, line, negative space, and movement.

What do you hope viewers take away from your work?
I want them to enjoy the excitement of creativity and explore the complexities and contradictions of visual beauty, just as I do.
In hindsight, what’s something you wish you knew before becoming a professional artist?
I wish I had realized how important creating a large body of work is.
Making more art speeds up your improvement, helps you overcome creative challenges, and builds momentum for sharing your work with the world.
How to keep track of such a large body of work:
With an inventory system like Artwork Archive, you can keep track of all your artwork details, exhibition history, ownership history, expenses related to your pieces, potential buyers, and more.
Keeping detailed records in one place allows you to present yourself as the professional you are and gives you the time and mental space to create even more art.
Sign up for your FREE Artwork Archive account here.
Do you have any rituals or routines to get you in the creative headspace?
Yes, a lot. Before I feel ready to work, I need to tidy up my space, put away my tools, sweep the floor, and make a pot of coffee.
It needs to feel right before I start.

Was there a specific instance or time you realized you needed something like Artwork Archive to inventory your artwork and manage your art career?
I’ve tried my homemade solutions, like Word documents, spreadsheets, Dropbox folders, and Google Drive, but none offer everything a platform like Artwork Archive can provide.
I spent several years researching options but never found the time to test them and implement them.
How do you use Artwork Archive daily?
It’s true; I use the Artwork Archive every day.
I use it to add new artwork (since I work quickly!), mark items as sold, and keep track of their locations.
I often use private rooms for the galleries and consultants I work with. I also create digital portfolios using the Reports Feature to send out and generate invoices for sold artwork and other art-related services.
Artwork Archive has made me more efficient and professional in running my business.
Conclusion
Modern collages celebrate classic art by blending historical elements with contemporary techniques. Artists draw inspiration from traditional styles, using familiar colors, textures, and shapes to create new works that honor the past while exploring fresh ideas. This fusion allows for a deeper appreciation of art history, inviting viewers to engage meaningfully with both old and new. Ultimately, modern collages serve as a bridge between different artistic eras, showcasing the enduring influence of classic art on today’s creative expressions.
FAQs
Q1: What is a modern collage?
Ans: A modern collage is an artwork created by assembling various materials, such as photographs, paper, fabric, and other objects, to form a new piece. This technique often incorporates classic art elements, reinterpreting them in contemporary contexts.
Q2: How do modern collages reference classic art?
Ans: Modern collages reference classic art by using recognizable motifs, styles, or techniques from historical artworks. Artists might incorporate famous paintings, sculptures, or artistic styles to create a dialogue between the past and the present.
Q3: What materials are commonly used in modern collages?
Ans: Common materials for modern collages include paper, magazines, photographs, fabric, and found objects. Artists often layer these elements to create depth and texture, allowing for creative expression and homage to classic art forms.
Q4: Can you give an example of a modern collage that pays homage to classic art?
Ans: An example would be a collage that combines elements from Picasso’s cubism with contemporary imagery. By blending these styles, the artist honors Picasso’s influence while creating something unique and modern.
Q5: Why do artists create modern collages that reference classic art?
Ans: Artists create these collages to explore their connection to art history, challenge traditional perceptions, and inspire new interpretations of established themes. This approach encourages viewers to engage with art in innovative ways.
Q6: How do modern collages impact our understanding of classic art?
Ans: Modern collages can deepen our understanding of classic art by providing fresh perspectives and contexts. They invite viewers to reconsider historical works’ significance and relevance in today’s artistic landscape.
Q7: What themes are often explored in modern collages referencing classic art?
Ans: Themes often explored include identity, culture, memory, and the passage of time. Artists use these themes to connect personal experiences with broader historical narratives, enhancing the dialogue between modern and classic art.
Q8: How do color and texture play a role in modern collages?
Ans: Color and texture are crucial in modern collages as they help convey emotions and create visual interest. Artists may use vibrant colors or rich textures reminiscent of classic artworks to evoke feelings or highlight specific elements, connecting them to the historical pieces they reference.
Q9: Are there specific artists known for creating modern collages inspired by classic art?
Ans: Yes, many contemporary artists create collages inspired by classic art. Artists like Wangechi Mutu and Romare Bearden have integrated historical references into their work, blending them with modern themes to create impactful pieces that resonate with today’s audience.
Q10: How do modern collages challenge traditional artistic boundaries?
Ans: Modern collages challenge traditional artistic boundaries by mixing different media and styles, allowing for greater creativity and expression. This approach encourages artists to avoid conventional forms and explore new ways to convey their messages.