Lucy Sante on Collage: ‘You Have to Kill One Thing to Make Another.’

Published on April 5, 2026

Lucy Sante, the esteemed visual historian and celebrated author known for her influential work “Low Life,” is currently showcasing her latest artistic endeavors in two distinct exhibitions. These exhibits feature a collection of recent artwork meticulously crafted from a trove of materials she has gathered over decades. Sante’s process involves a unique combination of slicing and gluing, which she describes as both a creative and evocative act.

In her new works, Sante delves into the world of collage, an art form that she believes embodies a profound philosophical notion: “You have to kill one thing to make another.” This sentiment highlights the transformative power of art, where the act of dismantling and reassembling disparate components can lead to the creation of something entirely new and meaningful.

Sante’s approach to collage is not simply about aesthetics; it is deeply rooted in a historical context. Each piece is infused with the stories and memories associated with the materials she employs. From vintage photographs to scraps of text, every element serves a purpose, connecting the past with the present in a tapestry of visual storytelling. Viewers are invited to engage with her work on multiple levels, finding personal resonance in the layers she constructs.

The exhibitions serve as a testament to Sante’s dedication to her craft, as well as her unyielding fascination with the passage of time and memory. She carefully selects each piece, often reflecting on its history and significance before incorporating it into her collages. This meticulous process not only gives voice to forgotten narratives but also infuses her art with a sense of authenticity and depth.

As the art world continues to evolve, Sante’s work stands out for its unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. Her collages challenge viewers to reconsider their relationship with the past and how they choose to interpret it. In a society often marked and superficiality, Sante’s artistry invites contemplation, urging us to pause and reflect on the stories that linger beneath the surface.

Through her exhibitions, Lucy Sante redefines the art of collage, illustrating that creativity often arises from the willingness to dismantle and reconfigure what once was. In her hands, discarded fragments are transformed into poignant reflections on life, history, and the act of creation itself.

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