Paper Maché: Sculpting with paper

Beschreibung

Discover paper not just as something you write on, but as a living, tactile material. In this one day workshop, artist Maria from Peru shares with us the ancient technique of modelling with paper maché. You’ll learn how to turn recycled paper and cardboard into sculptural, functional objects with character and strength. Using a clay‑like paper pulp instead of traditional layered papier‑maché, we’ll shape, carve, build, and refine pieces such as vessels, and small structures informed by pre-Columbian iconography and ritual forms. This new material and the influence of ancestral ceremonial ceramics from Peru have the potential to inspire your ceramic work in surprising ways. About the process: You’ll learn how to choose the right types of paper, break them down into pulp, knead the mixture, and work it into forms that are light yet sturdy. Throughout the process, you’ll experience a slower, more mindful way of working a connecting with the material through touch, transformation, and reuse. It’s a space to explore sustainability, creativity, and the quiet beauty found in everyday discarded things. You will learn how to: • Select and prepare recycled paper and cardboard • Create a smooth, clay‑like pulp suitable for sculpting • Shape both solid and hollow forms by hand • Build textures, reliefs, and attached elements • Refine surfaces and understand when simple structural supports are useful • Add natural pigments • Dry your pieces properly • Apply organic, eco‑friendly finishes for durability Please note: You are invited to contribute collecting your recycled papers, card boards, egg boxes or handwritten letters - any related recycled materials can be used. About your teacher: Maria runs a studio in Lima where she teaches regularly, working with participants of different ages and levels of experience, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Read more about Maria and her practice in the interview in the HANDFUL journal: https://www.handfulceramics.com/post/maria-paz-mej%C3%ADa-artist-and-founder-of-unu-papel-studio. Who is this workshop for? No experiences in paper maché are needed while experiences in hand-building ceramic techniques are recommended. But don't worry, if you are comfortable working with your hands and you have no ceramic experience but are handy and crafty, you are welcome, as the technique is very accessible and encourages experimentation, intuition, and personal expression.