Paper making

I was lucky enough to attend a Washi papermaking course run by the wonderful Master papermaker Elaine Cooper, earlier this year. Elaine Cooper is a leading expert on washi (Japanese handmade paper) and a unique exponent of its innovative use in art and design. She was taught the ancient craft by Master papermakers during a 10-year apprenticeship in Japan that was followed by many years of detailed research and development. Her work can be seen on her website Washi Artist . Elaine runs courses every year at City of Bath College 

                                                    Elaine Cooper in Japan

As a Printmaker I was very interested in learning how to make my own handmade paper and experiment with techniques such as laminating, casting, embedding and sculpting. Elaine was a great teacher and it was huge fun getting out of my 'lonely attic' and being part of a group of creative people all finding different ways to make and use handmade paper for their work. Here are a few of the pieces I made on the course.

Lunar

                                                             Dove Rising

                                                                Solar