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Mixed-media AssemblagesThe Creative Process of Assemblages incorporating handmade papers and objets trouvιs
Click on an image of a mixed-media assemblage below
for a larger view and details about the work.
Process: My work begins with the thrill of the materials I have found. I collect "neat junk" for what it says to me. The juxtaposition of colours and textures seem to reveal "a feeling". There might be a dream or philosophical question that I express. Many of my assemblages look like altars or doorways. Symbolism tells more about the message. I have made paper from scratch using such materials such as daphne, iris leaves, nettles, and Japanese fibres. As well I re-pulp and reform high quality art papers to create specifically designed papers much like one would weave, dye, or print textiles. The process of papermaking involves cooking and macerating plant fibres. Then I remove the starches by rinsing thoroughly. The remaining cellulose fibres are put into a vat of water and lifted out with a screen (called mold and deckle). This mat of paper fibres are then laid to dry. I spread out my papers and objects on a trestle table and arrange compositions. When all the elements are in place I begin to secure them. For most work I follow conservation measures and stitch rather than glue papers to linen fabric over acid free mat board. Because of the sculptural nature of the assemblages, they are covered by deep Plexiglas frames for protection. |
