Paper collage / papier collé

The paper collage or papier collé is made by pasting pieces and scraps of paper or cuttings on top of each other to make a picture. The term derives from the French "coller", meaning "to paste" or "glue". "Papiers collés" originally designated decorative designs made by pasting bits of colored paper together on a purely recreational basis. The term "collage" also continued to be used for pictures made by gluing together scraps of materials other than paper. The paper collage was revolutionised by Dada. Adherents of this school appreciated it because it was so versatile, providing scope for infinite combinations, surprising effects and the free play of chance. When the collage technique is applied to three-dimensional objects, the term used for them is Assemblage.