About me

I’m a seasoned design director with over 20 years of experience in graphic design, having worked in Victoria, Toronto, and now St. Thomas, Ontario. As the co-founder of the creative agency Arable (@arablebrand) and the design boutique Revival Studio (@revival_studio), I channel my passion for graphic design and vintage ephemera into the unique art of analog collage.

My artistic inspiration and technique are deeply rooted in a love for vintage materials and storytelling. I draw heavily from the vibrant imagery and narrative styles found in comic books, pulp and sci-fi novels, and old magazines. These sources offer a rich tapestry of visual and thematic elements that I weave into my work.

I begin by meticulously selecting images and materials that resonate with my vision, often sourcing from vintage publications that carry a strong sense of history and nostalgia. This careful curation is the first step in my hands-on process, which deliberately avoids digital shortcuts in favor of traditional methods. I physically cut, paste, and press each piece, allowing me to engage directly with the materials and add a tactile, human dimension to every composition.

By focusing exclusively on analog techniques, I ensure that each piece is truly one-of-a-kind and reflects the craftsmanship of handmade art. The process demands a lot of time and patience, as I arrange and rearrange the elements until I achieve the right balance and emotional resonance. The final result transforms source material into something entirely new and original.

My collages often juxtapose contrasting elements, creating dynamic interactions between different eras, styles, and genres. This eclectic approach lets me explore themes like memory, identity, and cultural history. Through my work, I invite viewers to find new meaning in familiar imagery and to reflect on the connections between the past and the present.

— Eric Bargenda