Introduction to Paper Sculpture

 Registration is closed for this event

May 11th, 2019 9:30 AM

  • Instructor: Michelle Wilson
  • Workshop Type: Arts
  • Workshop Status: Closed
  • Workshop Start: May 11th, 2019 9:30 AM
  • Workshop End: May 11th, 2019 5:30 PM
  • Sessions: 1

For any student interested in using handmade paper to create sculptural forms with armatures, this is a class for you!  Students will learn building methods for armatures and ways to wrap and dip their armatures in handmade paper prepared in a way that is called "high shrinkage". In this method, paper pulp has been beaten for a long period of time to absorb a large amount of water, and dramatic transformations can occur when the form dries. Due to time constraints, the sculptures will be small, but techniques will be discussed for working larger. 

*Please note – this technique involves a lot of water, and students will get wet. Please wear shoes and clothing that can get wet. Sculptures will need to remain on site for at least 24 hours before they can be picked up, due to the wet nature of the class. 


Materials to Bring: Optional: Students can bring sketches to work from, or come up with their ideas on the spot.

Workshop Fee (includes $30 materials fee): $195.00

Date & Time: Saturday, May 11, 2019 :: 9:30am-5:30pm

Location: 375 Rhode Island St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Note: Please read over the SFCB Registration Policies before signing up for a class

REGISTRATION WILL CLOSE 3 DAYS PRIOR TO THE START DATE OF THIS WORKSHOP.


About the Instructor | Michelle Wilson

MICHELLE WILSON is a papermaker, printmaker, book, installation, and social practice artist. Her practice includes frequent collaborations with other artists, in particular her ongoing projects Book Bombs (with Mary Tasillo) and the Rhinoceros Project (with Anne Beck). She has been making paper and books since 2002. Wilson has an MFA in Book Arts and Printmaking from the University of the Arts, and a BFA from Moore College of Art and Design. She has taught classes at Magnolia Editions, the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art Print Center, the Kala Art Institute, and currently teaches printmaking at San Jose State University and Stanford University.


Past Student Reviews:

“I like that Michelle gave us a couple of hours to experiment with the materials before showing us examples by other artists. That way, we could appreciate the level of artistry and craft that went into the examples.”

“She kept an eye on what we were doing and would make suggestions as to ways to solve any problems we were having.”

“I love the interactive nature of making the paper!”

“Michelle was great! It felt like a really safe space to try papermaking for the first time so I absolutely loved it.”

375 Rhode Island St
San Francisco, CA 94103-5133
United States