Third paper experiment

Fig 3

Fig. 3 seems to be my most successful attempt thus far because I added lots more water than before as well as blending the mixture. Although, this has changed the appearance of the paper quite significantly. As you can see, from Fig.1 (in previous post) to Fig.3 there is some detail that is lost here. Even though I do like the appearance of both, Fig.3 does appeal to me more so. I think this because the money quality of the paper seems obscure here whereas one could have guessed that it is made from paper when looking at Fig.1. I like to have a hint of mystery in the paper. But I do want the viewer to know it's paper, perhaps they will have to rely on a title with a hint of this rather than gaining this info through the visual but what does this mean for the visual message. If the visual message isn't communicated then what is the purpose? Isn't this the point of artwork? To communicate something words cannot.

The negatives to Fig.3 are that it is too thin and flimsy. I can however pick it up, carefully, without it falling apart! This is major progress since Fig.1 where I couldn't even partly pick up the sheet. In fact it will probably be re-used again as I cannot use it for any good!

 

close up of current, fig 3. attempt

close up of early attempt

The making process

The paper making process thus far as been a rollercoaster of emotions. This process requires me to be forceful and strong one moment but sensitive and tentative the next. For instance, squeezing the water out of the pulped paper demands strength. I literally lean my whole body over the paper to press as much out, with a sponge, as possible. Next I have to carefully and extremely tentatively peel the potential paper off from the deckle. This requires a certain level of care, it's like I have to switch from these two positions for each step. I'm very aware of my mood changes throughout the entire process; I go from enjoying placing the pulp onto the deckle then there's the water extraction process where I have to use all my strength so my stamina has to come into play. My mood changes fast from this playful process when I have to carefully peel the papery pulp mixture off the deckle onto my surface. This is the part I hate most, having to be cautious and ignore my natural instincts of ploughing through at a fast pace. This is where the process has usually faltered because I find it difficult to take the care and attention needed. This makes me wonder why this is? I'm always in a rush to come to the completed object, it's like I cannot wait for the outcome... the completed paper!

Paper Alice makes it look so easy!!! How does she do it?! Check out her youTube video.

 

Bibliography

Bryon Black (2008) Paper Alice make you own homemade paper [video online] Available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlX87tvei7c [Accessed 2 November 2013]