John Bingley Garland

John Bingley Garland (1791-1875) was a wealthy British merchant, politician, civil servant, and collage artist. He compiled a manuscript of 45 "blood collages" often called the "Victorian Blood Book", all likely produced in the 1850s, 62 years before the technique was officially "invented" by Picasso and Braque.

John Bingley Garland Biography

• Born in Poole , England in 1791 .
• He worked as a merchant for his family's business, Garland & Son.
• He went to Newfoundland and held various public offices, including justice of the peace and church builder.
• In 1834 he returned to England and took over the family business.
• In the 1850s, he created his "Blood Collages."
• He died in 1875 (aged 83).

Representative works

• "Blood Collages" series (1850s)

Garland's Art and Work

In addition to his activities as a merchant and politician , Garland created his own unique collage works. These works, known as "blood collages," are meticulous and fantastical depictions of religious images and symbolic motifs using his own blood, ink, watercolors, and other materials.

His works date back to before the technique of collage was generally recognized, and are highly regarded for their foresight and originality. His works also reflect the Victorian era's views on religion and life and death, and therefore have historical and cultural value.

Garland kept his artistic endeavors private during his lifetime, but after his death his work was rediscovered and continues to fascinate contemporary artists and art lovers with its originality and beauty .