Create a funny image or a serious social commentary by making a collage out of newspaper, magazines and old books. This project is simple but can yield a wide variety of results ranging from abstract to concrete imagery. This technique is popular amongst beginners and professional artists alike because the artist can create an entirely new piece of work through found images. Collect old magazines, newspapers and books, and cut or tear images you like from the pages. Arrange the images any way you see fit and tape or glue them to a cardboard back. The cardboard can be a simple white, or you can use different colors. Arrange the images in a way that forms the kind of meaning you wish to apply to your work.
Create a sculpture out of objects you find around your home, office or school. Construct any object you desire. For example, you can construct a human figure, or you can make an abstract piece of art. Some items you can use include pop cans, bottle caps, wadded paper, torn clothing, pieces of wood and metal tubing. You can use hot glue to adhere the objects into place, or you can tie the objects together using string or twine. Don't be afraid to create something completely unique or abstract. Sometimes you can find a deeper meaning in simple objects that are laying around your house.
Create a papier mache object. Using newspaper and papier mache adhesive, you can create different objects, such as bowls, masks, hearts and animals. To make the adhesive, bring 5 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. In a mixing bowl, stir 1/4 cup flour with a cup of cold water until you form a liquid with a smooth consistency. Add the mixture to the boiling water and gently boil for two or three minutes until the mixture is thick. Let the mixture cool before you use it with your paper strips. Once your object is covered with papier mache-soaked newspaper strips, allow it to cool overnight on a protected flat surface. Once dry, paint and decorate your object as you see fit.
Paint or draw a portrait of yourself or a family member. You can either draw from memory, or you can use an image or a live model. For a more comical portraiture, accentuate facial features such as the nose, ears or mouth. For something more realistic, pay close attention to detail and silhouettes. Make a note of the light source and draw or paint in your shadows as needed. You may also want to do a series of self portraits or portraits of friends and family.