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Logo for The Art of Abstract Collage with Cordula Kagemann

Composition is the backbone of all artwork.
Learn to make abstract art that feels intentional, not accidental.


SELF-PACED | LIFETIME ACCESS | 8 WEEKS TUTOR SUPPORT | PRIVATE ONLINE COMMUNITY

Register your interest in this course.

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Create stronger and more cohesive art - in any medium - 
by learning composition through collage.

 

In the Art of
Abstract Collage, you’ll:

  • Learn the foundations of strong composition so you can confidently create artwork that feels intentional, balanced, complete and compelling.
  • Use abstract collage as your creative playground to explore visual rhythm, contrast, space, and harmony.
  • Develop an eye for what works - and a knowledge of why it works - with practical tools you can apply across any medium.
  • Create abstract works that feel resolved, not random - even when you’re making bold, minimal, or unconventional creative decisions.
  • Explore texture, layering, and shape - no matter what materials you're drawn to.

 

Cordula generously shares insights into her working process in such a calm and inspiring way that it makes you want to dive right in! I am still relatively new to working with collages and often found it challenging to determine what steps to take next. In this course, I learned techniques that help me build my collages step by step. The videos are professionally filmed, providing high-quality visuals. The summaries are also excellent—starting each module with clear goals and ending with an overview and practical tips for practice and experimentation. The course fee is absolutely justified given the extensive material provided.

- Martina Grandel

Cordula’s teaching led to a mental “click” in understanding the concepts of composition. This course has taken my collage art to the next level and has added another level of depth and richness to my body of work. I really connected with Cordula’s calm, concise and non-judgmental teaching style. Since the course is self-paced, I never felt anxious about keeping up. Now, I’m more confident in my compositions, and I know artists working in any medium would benefit by wide range of lessons that can be universally applied. Trust me, it’s worth the investment! 

- Eva Potter

I have already recommended this course to several friends because it’s truly transformative. Before enrolling in the course, my artistic practice felt somewhat confined, as I primarily worked within familiar themes and techniques. Since then, my perspective has completely transformed - I now embrace new themes with confidence and have discovered exciting ways to create and use my own materials, allowing my art to evolve in unexpected and deeply fulfilling.

- Birgit Kühr

I learned so much from Cordula in this course! I started my abstract art journey about a year ago. As a creative writer and former lawyer, I'm used to expressing myself through words. But actually getting my hands dirty with paint and medium to create physical art that someone can reach out and touch has been thrilling and terrifying and so much more rewarding than I ever imagined. The techniques taught in this course are unique and will bring another layer to anybody's artistic repertoire. Also, even if you think you know about archetypal composition and imagery, studying it with an eye toward creating a work of collage is incredibly interesting and rewarding.

- Diane Gorczyca

It will certainly be an experience which will open up a whole range of possibilities in any form or art. An incredible eye-opening experience. Most of all I appreciate Cordula's generosity in her teaching and the serenity with which she transmits it. My knowledge of design, composition and archetypal elements was somehow limited before I took this course. I have now acquired a lot more confidence and the base from which I can further continue to learn and develop in my art work. Endless opportunities to develop and express our creativity.

- Ana Tièche

I loved Codulas thorough approach and calm, clear delivery very much. As a relatively new artist (4 years) this course has developed my understanding of composition, giving me tools to recognise when a work is complete. Modules were easy to absorb, I wanted to revisit them again and again. It was a breakthrough, the process provided a loose framework to work through the stumbling blocks, finishing with what I consider to be a series of cohesive pieces. The feedback is invaluable- I found the whole experience to be very uplifting.

- Leanne Johnston

Cordula generously shares insights into her working process in such a calm and inspiring way that it makes you want to dive right in! I am still relatively new to working with collages and often found it challenging to determine what steps to take next. In this course, I learned techniques that help me build my collages step by step. The videos are professionally filmed, providing high-quality visuals. The summaries are also excellent—starting each module with clear goals and ending with an overview and practical tips for practice and experimentation. The course fee is absolutely justified given the extensive material provided.

- Martina Grandel

Cordula’s teaching led to a mental “click” in understanding the concepts of composition. This course has taken my collage art to the next level and has added another level of depth and richness to my body of work. I really connected with Cordula’s calm, concise and non-judgmental teaching style. Since the course is self-paced, I never felt anxious about keeping up. Now, I’m more confident in my compositions, and I know artists working in any medium would benefit by wide range of lessons that can be universally applied. Trust me, it’s worth the investment! 

- Eva Potter

Here's how Cordula delivers her
world-class curriculum...

MODULE 1: Introduction to Abstract Composition

Begin your artistic journey by getting to know Cordula Kagemann and her distinctive approach to abstract art. She’ll introduce you to the fascinating world of abstract composition, laying the groundwork for the entire course. You'll explore the history and evolution of abstract art, learning how early 20th-century artists broke away from traditional representation to create compositions based purely on form, colour, and texture.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 1

In this module, you will explore...

  • Historical Context and Evolution of Abstract Art: Discover how abstract art emerged and evolved, focusing on the groundbreaking work of early 20th-century artists who redefined the visual language of art.
  • Understanding Composition: Learn why composition is the backbone of successful abstract art and how it guides the viewer’s eye through an artwork, creating balance, harmony, and emotional impact.

  • Cordula’s Artistic Journey: This module will provide insight into Cordula Kagemann's personal experiences and artistic process, setting the tone for a course that emphasises both creative exploration and practical application.

 

By the end of this module, you’ll be inspired by the rich history of abstract composition, mixed media, and the techniques employed by contemporary collage artists, setting the stage for a deeper understanding of the elements and principles that will guide you through the creation of compelling abstract collages.

MODULE 2: Tools & Materials

Dive into the practical aspects of abstract collage by exploring the essential tools and materials that will become your creative companions throughout the course. Cordula Kagemann guides you through her selection of papers, adhesives, and tools, offering tips on organising and storing your materials for optimal workflow. This module is designed to equip you with everything you need to start creating, ensuring you feel confident and prepared as you move forward. 

You’ll discover...

  • Introduction to Collage Materials: Get an overview of the specific papers, adhesives, and tools Cordula uses in her work, with practical advice on selecting the best materials for your projects.

  • Organising and Storing Materials: Learn how to efficiently organise and store your collage supplies, making it easier to maintain a productive and inspiring workspace.

  • Preparing for Creative Success: Understand the importance of being well-prepared before beginning any art project, setting the foundation for a smooth and enjoyable creative process.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 2 - Option A

By the end of this module, you’ll be fully equipped with the knowledge and materials needed to embark on your abstract collage journey, setting yourself up for success in the creative exercises to come.

MODULE 3: Design Elements - Preparing Collage Papers

During this module, you will begin creating a variety of collage papers. By using painting, cutting, and marking methods, you will infuse your papers with a visually appealing texture and dimension. Cordula will guide you in exploring different design elements to create on your collage papers. These papers will play a significant role in upcoming modules of the course when you craft your abstract compositions.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 3 - Option A

You will explore...

  • Creating Collage Papers: Discover how to use different methods to craft unique collage papers that will serve as the foundation for your abstract compositions in upcoming modules.

  • Understanding Design Elements: Gain a comprehensive understanding of essential design elements, including dots, lines, marks, shapes, patterns, and textures, and learn how to apply them to create distinctive collage papers.

  • Building a Paper Collection: Learn Cordula’s techniques for building an organised collection of patterned and textured papers that will enrich your future collage projects.

By the end of this module, you will have an understanding of all the design elements and how to use them to create unique collage papers. Experimenting with different colours, designs, and textures can add depth and visual interest to your artworks, allowing you to express your creativity in unique and exciting ways.

MODULE 4: Exploring Notan and the Principle of Balance

In module four, Cordula Kagemann introduces you to the profound Japanese concept of Notan, which focuses on the harmony between dark and light. This module is dedicated to understanding and applying the essential design principle of balance, a cornerstone of successful abstract compositions.

You will learn...

  • The Concept of Notan: Discover the significance of Notan, a Japanese principle that emphasises the balance between dark and light elements in art, creating harmony and visual interest in your compositions.

  • Practical Exercises in Balance: Engage in hands-on exercises to explore the interplay of shape, form, and placement in achieving balanced compositions.

  • Playful Experimentation: Embrace a playful approach as Cordula encourages spontaneous experimentation with shapes and compositions, fostering creativity and deeper insight into the dynamics of balance.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 4 - Option A
By the end of this module, you will have experienced several practical ways to lay the groundwork and start an abstract composition. You will be equipped to integrate this principle into your artistic practice, enhancing both your creative work and even your approach to life’s challenges.

MODULE 5: Mastering Design Principles in Abstract Collage

In Module Five, Cordula Kagemann takes you deeper into the world of design principles that can transform your collage compositions from basic elements into cohesive and expressive works of art. Building on the Notan studies from Module Four, this module emphasises the application of key principles such as rhythm, movement, depth, and emphasis to create dynamic and impactful collages.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 5 - Option C

You'll learn to:

  • Apply Rhythm and Movement: Learn to guide the viewer's eye across your collage, creating a dynamic flow and energy that keeps the composition engaging.

  • Create Depth and Spatiality: Discover techniques for adding dimension to your work, enhancing the visual impact by creating a sense of depth and space.

  • Enhance Emphasis and Focal Points: Understand how to draw attention to key areas within your collage, ensuring certain elements stand out while maintaining overall harmony.

By the end of this module, you will have the skills and confidence to refine your collage studies, making informed decisions that enhance unity and create visually compelling compositions. This module will help you connect and balance visual elements, resulting in cohesive and expressive pieces that resonate with viewers.

MODULE 6: Mastering Colour Contrasts

In this module Cordula teaches the essential role of colour in an abstract composition, drawing inspiration from Johannes Itten’s influential work, The Art of Color. You’ll explore the fundamental colour contrasts that shape the visual impact of the artwork. Through practical demonstrations, you'll see how these contrasts can be effectively utilised in collage, where colour typically stems from pre-existing materials rather than paint. 

You’ll discover...

  • Fundamental Color Contrasts: Delve into the key contrasts outlined by Johannes Itten, including complementary colours, the contrast of hue, dominance and quantity, quality and value, warm versus cool colours, and colour versus non-colour.

  • Application in Collage: Discover how to apply these colour contrasts within the unique context of collage, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by pre-existing materials.

  • Techniques for Layering: Experiment with layering techniques to alter and enrich colour effects, adding depth and complexity to your compositions.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 6 - Option C
 
By the end of this module, you will have a deeper understanding of how to utilize colour contrasts to create dynamic, harmonious, and visually engaging abstract compositions. With these insights, you’ll be well-equipped to integrate colour into your collage work, elevating both its aesthetic and structural qualities.

MODULE 7: Format - Presentations

In Module 7, Cordula Kagemann delves into the significance of format and its profound impact on abstract art composition. You’ll explore how various formats—landscape rectangles and polyptychs—can shape and influence your artistic expression. By learning about different formats, you’ll discover how they can alter the visual impact and guide compositional choices in your work.

fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 7 - Option A

You will explore:

  • The Influence of Format: Understand how different formats, such as rectangles, squares, circles, and irregular outlines, affect the composition and perception of abstract art.

  • Contemporary Insights: Analyze the works of contemporary collage and mixed media artists to gain insights into how format can enhance or challenge creative intentions.
  • Historical Perspectives: Discover how formats have been utilised throughout art history and how they have evolved over time.

By the end of this module, you will have a deeper understanding of how format influences the overall composition and impact of abstract art. With this knowledge, you’ll be equipped to experiment confidently with various formats, enhancing your creative work's visual appeal and depth.

MODULE 8: Surface Design Studies

In Module 8, you will explore the foundational techniques for structuring your art surfaces, providing a robust starting point for your creative process. Cordula Kagemann will share examples of her own artwork and guide you through essential design concepts that are crucial when beginning a new artwork, focusing on planning and structuring to achieve coherent and impactful compositions.

You’ll uncover:

  • Surface Structuring Techniques: Learn methods for structuring your art surfaces, including horizontal and vertical partitions, the golden ratio, and diagonal lines, to create balanced and dynamic compositions.

  • Practical Applications: Engage in small studies on canvas boards, using a neutral colour scheme to focus on structure and experiment with different design approaches.

  • Strategic Design Planning: Discover the benefits of making design choices upfront, such as utilising the golden ratio or rule of thirds, to guide your intuitive art process and create well-balanced artwork.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 8 - Option B
By the end of this module, you will have a deeper understanding of how to strategically plan and structure your art surfaces. These strategies will allow you to balance intuitive creativity with thoughtful design, enhancing your compositions and making them more coherent and impactful.

MODULE 9: Archetypal Compositions 1

In Module 9, Cordula Kagemann introduces you to the timeless concepts of archetypal compositions, exploring foundational structures that have shaped artistic expression for centuries. You’ll delve into the archetypal forms of the cross, circle, and grid, understanding their historical significance and how they can serve as powerful tools in abstract composition. Additionally, you'll be able to watch Cordula create these compositions on canvas, witnessing the process from start to finish as she completes full artworks, not just studies.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 9 - Option A

You will learn: 

  • Understanding Archetypal Forms: Learn about the cross, circle, and grid compositions, three fundamental structures that have been used in art for centuries.

  • Integrating Design Elements: Watch as Cordula demonstrates how these archetypal shapes can provide structure without becoming formulaic, applying design elements and principles discussed in earlier modules.

  • Practical Application: Create your own compositions using these archetypal structures, integrating materials like vintage magazine papers and fabrics alongside your previously created collage papers. 
 By the end of this module, you will be equipped to apply archetypal composition concepts to structure your abstract artwork. This knowledge will provide a solid foundation for enhancing the cohesion and depth of your compositions while allowing for personal expression and creative exploration.

MODULE 10: Archetypal Compositions 2

In this module, you’ll advance your exploration of archetypal compositions by creating three final collages on canvas. Focus on the L shape, the triangle, and the symmetrical composition (also known as the mirror). These new shapes build on the foundational archetypes from the previous module, deepening your understanding of how these timeless concepts can elevate your artistic practice.

You will create...

  • The L Shape: Discover how this versatile format can guide the arrangement of elements within your collage, creating balance and focus.

  • The Triangle: Learn how the stability and directionality of triangular compositions can add dynamism and structure to your work.

  • Symmetrical Composition (The Mirror): Understand the power of symmetry in creating harmonious and reflective compositions that resonate with viewers.
fibre_arts_take_two_cordula_kagemann_abstractModule 10 - Option A
In this module, you’ll advance your exploration of archetypal compositions by creating three final collages on canvas. Focus on the L shape, the triangle, and the symmetrical composition (also known as the mirror). These new shapes build on the foundational archetypes from the previous module, deepening your understanding of how these timeless concepts can elevate your artistic practice.

Sign up for exclusive course previews and updates

When you register your interest in The Art of Abstract Collage, you’ll:


✔️ Unlock a special five-part video series where you’ll get to know Cordula, and hear her thoughts on abstract vs representational art and overcoming blank canvas syndrome.

✔️ Experience a hands-on tutorial with Cordula straight from her studio.

✔️ Enjoy behind-the-scenes sneak peeks of The Art of Abstract Collage before it opens for enrolment.

✔️ Be notified when enrolment opens so you can secure your spot before the course fills up.

 

Meet your tutor

Tucked away in a 300-year-old farmhouse in the German countryside, Cordula Kagemann is a mixed media artist with a background in textiles, fashion, and visual arts.

For Cordula, composition is less about rigid rules and more about clarity. It’s a way of creating flow, anchoring emotion, and building visual trust. She believes that when you understand the building blocks - balance, rhythm, focal point, contrast - you stop second-guessing and start creating with intention.

As a teacher, Cordula is calm, clear, and generous - a guide more than an instructor. She teaches from experience, drawing on decades of creative practice and a lifelong fascination with composition. Her approach helps you combine intuition with structure to develop a visual language that feels fully your own.

Helpful FAQs
Have another question? We’re here to help! Please contact the Take Two team at support@fibreartstaketwo.com

As soon as you enrol you’ll get instant, lifetime access to the complete course.

Cordula will be available in the student community Facebook group for live engagement between 23 June and 15 August 2025.

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