And now for something different!
Before I begin a new collage, I will often paint papers in bright colorful patterns, so that I can tear them up into pieces to use in the collage. I also hoard collect other interesting papers: old maps, books, handmade papers, and the like.
These papers are really fascinating! Sometimes I am hesitant to cover them up inside a large artwork because they are so interesting. Plus, they seem to multiply: no matter how much I use, my paper stash never seems to diminish.
Recently, I got to thinking about how I could use the papers in a way that would still keep them visible so they could be enjoyed. That led to experimenting with making paper mache bowls from them. Wouldn’t you know – they are so cool!
The bowls have decorative papers inside and out. Some are large (about 12 inches across), others are tiny (2-3 inches). Some are rustic looking while others are more polished.
The pictures here are only a small assortment of the bowls I’ve made so far. I’ve taken a nice group of them to Holden Arboretum for their Gifts from the Heart of Nature shop. Plenty more are in my studio.
The bowls are lovely decorative accessories and are good for holding jewelry, trinkets, ornaments, candy, and such.
Stop on out and take a look!
