RELIEF SCULPTURE IN CAST PAPER

The Process

Nancy has taken the classic art of bas (bah) relief sculpture and applied it to the production of hand cast archival paper.

What is hand cast paper sculpture?

Hand cast paper sculpture is the result of a lengthy three stage process requiring both creative and technical skills.

Nancy begins her work by modeling the image with oil-based clay. When the modeling is completed, a mold is made. Beaten cotton linter pulp is placed into this mold and then, with sponge in hand, excess water is extracted while pressing the pulp into the mold. After 6 - 8 days of drying time, the solid sheet is released revealing the created image.

The cast papers are strengthened and protected with additives of sizing (a hardening agent), methylcellulose (an archival material that promotes fiber bonding) and a small amount of kaolin (clay which reduces shrinkage). The finished castings may be painted with acrylic or left in the natural state.