Papermaking
Multimedia | 2019
As a Graphic Designer, paper often finds itself as the surface of many of my designs. It can have an impact with the way I present my design, concept, and narrative. I often feel like I rely on technology and my computer a lot, and it divorces me from considering the tactile experience. In my exploration of paper, I also wanted to understand the steps taken to create a resource that we take for granted.
While I was at school, I tried to make the most of my time making paper studio hours. My goal was to learn and fully utilize all of the tools and machines in papermaking. This includes operating the Hollander beater and hydraulic press as well as trying mallets for the hand-beaten option. While this process is highly dependent on a studio setting, I hope I can make the most of my time now to learn how to carry on my passion for papermaking into possible future production.
In terms of documentation, I have a Google Folder dedicated to documenting my process and posting reflections. As I continue to practice my technique and experiment with conventional and unconventional materials, I will continue to research the history of papermaking. I had as much documenting the process of papermaking with my studio mates as I did mixing and couching the paper.
My final project for the semester was a narrative using all of the paper varieties I had made, a process book, and future plans for several handbound booklets to share with friends. The narrative book followed a dream sequence in the perspective of the dreamer.
