My name is Diane Goodbar.  I have always loved expressing myself artistically and have used a variety of mediums to do so over the years.  In 2002, I began experimenting with collages and discovered I loved the process of creating “pictures out of pictures”.  My technique evolved quickly and I began making collages that looked like photographs, usually with a whimsical twist. 

 

I liken what I do to putting together jigsaw puzzles.  I enjoy playing with light and shadow, creating the illusion of 3 dimensions, and adding quirky elements of surprise.  All of my collages are one-of-a-kind originals.

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I use “coffee table” books that I find at bargain book stores and book fairs.  Each collage begins with an idea, or a photo of an object I find appealing.  Using razor sharp scissors, I cut out portions of pictures and begin building the collage.  I may use 15 books to create  one collage and a single collage may have 50 or more pieces.  Once the collage is built, I then take it all apart and begin gluing it back together.  The final collage is then framed and ready for sale.  In the world of photo-shop and digital enhancing, I think of myself as “old school”.  My collages are simply made the old fashioned way, with scissors and glue.

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I started my business, Rooms to Go – Custom Collages in 2002.  As I displayed and sold my work, I began getting requests for specific custom collages that would reflect the individual customer or their gift recipient.  While I love just using my imagination and creating an inventory of diverse collages, I found it both challenging and exciting to make custom collages.  I have created custom collages on subjects such as Castles, Carousels, Golf, Motorcycles, Antique Phones, Vintage Firefighting Equipment, Victorian dresses, Waterfalls, Children’s fantasy lands, Dogs, Bagpipes, Dolphins, and many more.

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After a 27 year career in the corporate world, I retired and moved to Virginia in 2005 at the wonderful and gracious invitation of my son and his wife, in anticipation of the arrival of my first grandchild.  I now have 2 beautiful granddaughters and love my role as a “hands-on” Grandma.  I feel my retirement has allowed me to reinvent myself as a full-time artist, as well.

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In addition to my collages, I have another line of art work at C’Ville Arts, my second business, knitted baby items.  These include sweaters, hoodies, hats, booties and leg warmers.  I hand knit all these items using my own patterns and designs.  I like to combine colors and textures and unusual buttons.  I named this business Heart Rushes to describe the little ones who wear them.  Each item has a unique feature that makes them a one-of-a-kind creations.
 

I hope you enjoy my work.

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