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There’s something incredibly calming about layering gloppy strips of paper to create a dynamic art piece. The process is slow and methodical and takes many layers to build up a form that will stand the test of time. Papier mache began just shortly after the "invention" of paper in China in 300 AD. Creating art out of shredded paper became more widely popular in in the 1700’s in Europe as a material to make furniture, decorative objects and religious icons. Papier mache is probably the least elusive art form there is as the ingredients are few; just paper, water and a binder of some sort like glue. In fact, it's available to any and everyone who has the desire to create.
In the golden age of ornament, papier mache was used as an alternative to wood. At times, it was so prized that artisans used it for everything from ornate wall panels to glittering chandeliers and elegant carriages. This was accessible beauty from the simplest of materials. It is less common these days to find paper used in the sculptural art world or indeed in everyday commerce. As plastic, metal, concrete and other materials for building were developed , the art of papier mache can be hard to find.
But there is a resurgence in paper making by a few who have fallen under the spell of papier mache. Mark Gagnon comes to mind as one of the most sought after paper artists working today. His work can be found at krbnyc.com .
Livia Cetti of the The green Vase is a true entrepreneur in the world of paper flowers. While crepe paper has been used in schools for decades, Cetti's inventive turn with painted paper is a perfect combination of realism and whimsy. Find her at John Derian or thegreenvase.com
Get the Gusto in Florida is a premiere modern practitioner of paper mache crafting beautifully designed one offs and picture frames. Most notably, their showroom is adorned with intricate and elaborate panels made out of molded papier mache. This is a super luxurious service as the labor for this kind of work is intense. Check out getthegusto.com
Many of you may be familiar with Stray Dog Designs, a company based in Tennesse and helmed by Billy and Jane Pritchard. All of their design are handcrafted in Mexico out of papier Mache and are both durable and fun. I will never forget Billy jumping impromptu onto a papier mache stool to prove how strong it was. It's strength is one of its charms. straydogdesigns.com
About 10 years ago I collaborated with a lovely Haitian company to create a collection of cachepots painted with toile like patterns. The cachepots were especially popular with a small subset of my customers who understood and appreciated the rarity of this craft and all is charms.
Now as I have more time on my hands than ever, I am enjoying creating one off papier mache decorative objects that add just the right splash of color and whimsy.
These lovely potted pansies are new and they look stunning in any setting. Click on the image below to learn more.
What I find wonderful about papier mache is it's weightlessness. Lift a papier mache pot or sculpture and it’s almost as light as air. I also like that I can turn paper, cardboard and other items laying about the house into something beautiful, the very definition of sustainability. I believe people today yearn for things that are hand made and imperfect. No special tools are needed, just your fingers and your imagination. Creating papier mache forms and objects enables you a moment to dream, to build beauty out of nothing and delight in the activity of making.
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