Sara Lesztak
Contributor
Paper with Passion will be featured in the Hope Arts Gallery backroom from April 1-28.
The exhibit showcases a variety of paper mache and collage artwork from local artists.
Ten enthusiasts aged 20 to 70 found the enjoyment of creating their own objects with this newly learned skill at The Art Machine this month.
What is junk mail good for? Participants discovered that recycled paper was the best to use for their artwork. To make the pulp, soak paper, boil it to dissolution, drain it, and then add an adhesive. To make a collage carefully choose strips of paper, and then glue them to a background, or glue paper towels over balloons and boxes. You can also turn cardboard into fanciful wall hangings. This was quite a job, but wonderful results were made in masks, books, wall hangings, cards, bowls and sculptures.
The workshop participants didn’t have to imitate the technique of Pablo Picasso, ancient Egyptians, or artists of the Far and Middle East while working with paper mache or collage. They followed their own expression while enjoying the art form with new friends. The creative exhibit poster by Diane Ferguson can be seen in various Hope shops and restaurants. The opening night for Paper with Passion is April 12, from 7-9 p.m.
Hope Arts Gallery is located at 349 Fort St. The Art Machine is at 777 5th Ave.
