Paper Clay Sculpture Inspirations

[Diane Stafford]

This image, although a poor one as it's from a cut out in one of my art journals, is one from the early stages of an experimentation I did some time ago in which I covered heavy paper strips with paperclay to create a sculpture piece.

Sadly, the finished work did not move back with us when we returned to the UK, so I can't show you that.

However, this shows how versatile the paper clay medium can be.

Another source of inspiration for creative ideas are other paperclay artists, not to copy their work (please don't) but to gain inspiration as to what is possible for you to create.

Take a look here at Graham Hay, paperclay, paper sculpture.

Look around you for inspiration, see what materials you have that might inspire a new creation or take inspiration from your garden.

Have fun
www.arthobby.co.uk

[mary]

Diane,

I like your airy sculpture. Did it take very long to make? Can this paperclay be used for sculptures without being fired?

Mary Rice

[Diane Stafford]

Hi Mary, thanks :>) It did take quite some time to make as the moisture of the clay dampens the paper strips, which then sag, so it therefore needs to be dried (hairdryer) at each application. The added bonus of using paper clay like this is that it works wet over dry.

It can be sculpted on its own (without paper strips) into any shape as long as its weight is supported into the shape being created (just like normal earth clays)

Yes this paper clay can be used for anything without being fired as long as it is thoroughly air dried, painted if needed, and varnished - usually yacht varnish.

Di :>)

[mary]

Hi Diane,

Well it looks like I will be trying paper clay(sometime). I really want to learn how to sculpt. I want to get this cold porcelain done right first. There are some really good magazines called Porcelana Fria, but they are all in Spanish. There is a site to translate languages called bevelfish I think, but I can't figure out how to do it.


Mary Rice

[Diane Stafford]

Hi Mary, hmmm.. the trouble with translating programs is that they rarely get it right - that said i havent tried babelfish/bevalfish? Porcelana is obviously Porcelain and Fria is cold. Are the magazines on a site? let me know and I will have a go with my limited Spanish. Di :>)

[Diane Stafford]

Hi Virgo, thanks for the comments :>) We are glad help and look forward to seeing what you make with your paper and clay mixture :>) all the best