Introduction to Papermaking
November 16 @ 10:30 am - 4:30 pm
$189.00An In-Studio Workshop!
Saturday, November 16, 10:30am-4:30pm
View our current in-studio Health and Safety and Cancellation Policies >>
About this Workshop:
Delve into the world of handmade paper with this popular introductory course. You’ll learn the basic techniques of Western-style hand papermaking, including pulp preparation, sheet forming, couching, pressing, and drying. An overview of decorative techniques, such as the use of pigments, inclusions, layering, and shaped deckles, as well as pulp additives such as sizing, retention agents, and formation aid are also included. This class is designed as an introduction for new students and a refresher for those papermakers who may be out of practice.
Level: Beginner – no experience necessary
Registration closes November 8, 2024. Material fees are included with your registration covering all of the necessary materials for class.
Photos of pulp preparation by Jen Sheckels; photos of student working courtesy of Melina Meshako
CLASS MATERIALS LIST:
Registration includes a $30 materials fee to cover all of the necessary materials provided in class. Students may want to bring the following optional supplies to class:
- Personal apron (we’ll have some on hand) – waterproof is recommended, but you can also substitute a heavy cooking apron
- Comfortable shoes with good tread (you will be on your feet most of the day and the studio floor will get wet)
- Note paper and pen (for taking notes)
- Gloves for those who may be sensitive – your hands will be in almost constant contact with water during the day
YOUR INSTRUCTOR:
Isabella Whitfield is a multidisciplinary artist whose practice encompasses site-responsive installation, papermaking, and sculpture. She makes meditative, performative work that considers the contradictory relationships between the environment, physical homeland, human labor, and historical object functionality. Whitfield’s projects often contain an act of collaborative generosity, inviting the viewer to become part of the work through physical immersion or participatory artistic creation. She has a Bachelors in Studio Art and Politics from the University of Virginia and has exhibited major works at New City Arts, Ruffin Gallery, the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Museum and InLight 2021 with 1708 Gallery. She recently completed residencies with the Visual Arts Center of Richmond and OxBow School of Art. Learn more about her work at www.isabellawhitfield.com.
“I loved how small it was with only 5 participants. I think that allowed everyone to be friendly and get one on one help.”
—Previous Workshop Participant
“I found a new love for paper making and have already signed up for the Intermediate class.”
—Previous Workshop Participant