Beyond the Surface: The Art of Handmade Paper

More than just a surface to write, draw, or sketch on, paper is a dynamic art form that encourages collaboration and welcomes spontaneity. Beyond the Surface: The Art of Handmade Paper explores the shape-shifting quality of paper—how it can transform from pulpy fiber into vibrant works of art through hand papermaking. This exhibition features handmade paper creations showcasing a variety of techniques that expand our understanding of the medium.

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The works presented here were created at Dieu Donné, a leading arts organization in New York that offers artists support, training, and resources to create contemporary works of art using handmade paper processes. For many of the artists featured in the exhibition it is their first foray into hand papermaking. Working with an expert staff collaborator, the artists transform fibers — such as cotton and linen—into a variety of forms ranging from vibrant pulp paintings to delicately layered art objects. Together, the artists and studio collaborators lift, press, blow, pour, and pull the pulp to create unique works of art. This requires trusting the materials, working together, and embracing unplanned discoveries along the way.

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All exhibitions at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art are underwritten by the MBMA Exhibition Fund.

All exhibitions at the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art are underwritten by the MBMA Exhibition Fund. Major annual support is provided by Kay Clark and Maggie and Milton Lovell, with generous annual funding from Anonymous, Gloria and Kenneth Boyland, Holly and Paul T. Combs, Deborah and Bob Craddock, Michael and Maria Douglass, Eleanor and William Halliday, Debi and Galen Havner, Buzzy Hussey and Hal Brunt, Jay and Kristen Keegan, the Doris S. and Hubert Kiersky Charitable Remainder Trust, Carl and Valerie Person, and Bill Townsend.

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