Date of Defense

4-17-2020

Date of Graduation

4-2020

Department

Art

First Advisor

Jeffrey Abshear

Second Advisor

Katie Platte

Abstract

The Art of Paper Making is an exploration into an overlooked field. My goal was to learn not only how to make paper, but how different materials and processes can change the final product. The process was not only for me though. I wanted to create a fun and informative way to document the papermaking process to present to those who aren’t familiar with it.

One of the biggest things that impacted my studies was the amount of time I would beat the paper pulp. The amount of time the pulp runs through the beater drastically changes the texture of the paper. Some batches I have beat pulp for only 30-45 minutes, some batches were beaten for an hour. By the end, I was beating the pulp for about 2 hours in order to get the desired texture. When the pulp is beaten longer, there are fewer and smaller chunks and bits in the paper. Instead, it is much more smooth and thin. A lot of time and effort goes into making paper: much more than is anticipated.

Making paper can be far different from what most expect. By creating a video, I intend to show people the way that paper can be created in the studio. Having access to a studio like this is uncommon for most so this is a great way for viewers to get a peak of what it looks like inside. The process of making paper entails quite a few steps and because of this, it is an art form for some. Watch the video and make your own conclusions. What is art? Is papermaking art? The main point of this project is to educate those on how to make paper and from their they can form their own thoughts and opinions.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

Thesis.mp4 (1062202 kB)
Thesis Video

Share

COinS