About Me
Hi, I’m Steph Assez, a self-taught collage artist and embroiderer based in Southeast London.
I’ve been cutting, pasting and piecing together stories since I was a child, my school books were covered in collages, and I used to make pieces for friends and family just for the joy of it. After years focused on writing, returning to hands-on art felt like coming home, and collage quickly became the centre of my creative practice again.
My work is playful, feminist and often surreal, always rooted in storytelling. Using vintage photographs, old magazines, found paper and recycled materials, I rework nostalgic imagery into new narratives that balance humour, emotion and unexpected juxtapositions. Old Hollywood figures, French text and retro ephemera frequently appear throughout my work, influenced by both my background in French and Film Studies at King’s College London and my lifelong love of cinema and visual culture.
Alongside collage, embroidery has become an important part of my practice. I stitch directly onto vintage photographs, paper ephemera and found objects such as matchboxes, using thread to literally and figuratively connect past and present. Some works combine collage and embroidery, while others keep the two distinct, but both explore ideas of memory, transformation and reclaiming traditionally domestic crafts through a feminist lens.
Sustainability sits at the heart of everything I make. I work almost entirely with vintage, found and recycled materials, transforming overlooked objects and discarded fragments into something new. I’m not especially interested in boxing myself into one medium or label — while my brand may be called Assez Collage, you’ll find a collage of materials, techniques and stories running throughout my work.
As a writer as well as an artist, storytelling is what ties everything together for me. Whether through paper, thread or found objects, I want my work to make people pause, smile, and feel something genuine.
You can find my collages at local markets and online. I’m also open to commissions, whether that’s a private piece, a project for a brand, or a collaboration with musicians or other artists, especially for unique album cover art or creative campaigns.
FAQs
Do you sell originals, prints, or both?
Yes! I sell both original hand-cut collages and high-quality fine art prints of selected works. Each original is one-of-a-kind and made entirely by hand using vintage and recycled materials. Prints are professionally produced on archival, museum-grade paper to ensure vibrant colour and longevity.
What’s the difference between an original collage and a print?
Each original collage is completely handmade, one-of-a-kind and created using vintage and recycled materials.
Prints are high-quality reproductions of those originals, professionally printed on archival, acid-free paper using pigment-based inks for longevity and colour accuracy. Prints do not include the physical texture of the original collage (like layered paper edges or raised elements).
How are your collages made?
All of my collages are made by hand – no digital editing, no AI, just scissors, glue, and imagination. I use found, vintage and recycled materials such as old magazines, books, paper scraps and photos. Every piece is unique, and even my “scrap collages” are made from leftover fragments to minimise waste.
Are your materials sustainable?
Yes! Sustainability is central to my practice. I source materials from charity shops, car boot sales, vintage fairs and found objects, giving new life to paper and imagery that might otherwise end up in landfill.
Do you take commissions?
Absolutely. I love working on bespoke collages, whether it’s a personal piece, a gift, a brand collaboration, or album artwork for musicians. If you have a specific theme, colour palette or story in mind, just get in touch and we can create something unique together.
Can I request a custom size or print?
Yes, depending on the piece. Most of my prints can be made in different sizes, and I can often adjust proportions to suit your space. Drop me a message through the contact form and I’ll let you know what’s possible.
How long will my order take to arrive?
For prints that I have in stock, please allow 3-5 days.
For original artworks, I usually ship within 5 business days. You’ll receive a confirmation email with tracking once your order is on its way.
(International orders may take a little longer depending on location.)
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, I ship to most places. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on your location. Please note that customs duties or import taxes (if applicable) are the buyer’s responsibility.
How are artworks packaged?
I use eco-friendly and recyclable packaging wherever possible. Prints are shipped flat or rolled in sturdy cardboard tubes, depending on size, and originals are carefully wrapped and protected to ensure they arrive safely.
Can I return or exchange an item?
Because of the nature of handmade and limited edition artwork, returns and exchanges are usually not accepted unless the item arrives damaged. If something goes wrong in transit, please contact me within 7 days of delivery and I’ll do my best to make it right.
Do you sell at markets or in person?
Yes! I regularly sell at art and maker markets around London. Keep an eye on my Instagram or newsletter for upcoming dates and locations.
Can I feature your work / collaborate with you?
I’m always open to creative collaborations, whether you’re another artist, a musician, or a brand looking for unique visual storytelling. Reach out via the contact page or email me directly with your ideas.
Are the prints limited edition?
My prints are open edition unless otherwise stated. Each one is carefully printed in small batches to maintain quality and reduce waste.
Do your originals come framed?
Most originals come framed. Details will be listed on each product page.
Do you sign your prints or originals?
Yes, all originals are signed, and most prints are signed and and numbered if part of a limited run.