Papermaking is something that I took an interest in while I was studying Design and Visual Communications. Drew Mattot, a master paper maker and co-founder of the PEeacce Paper Project held a workshop open to the public at MIAD and that is where I made paper for the first time. For part one of my senior thesis we were asked to come up with something that addresses the prompt Healthy Cities, I chose to tackle the litter problem that we have in Milwaukee, specifically paper litter. I knew I wanted to make paper from these materials but I had zero clue how to start, so when I hear about Mattot's workshop it was the perfect opportunity. During this workshop, we made paper out of masks that he collected from the street, recycled police uniforms, and recycled American Flags. There I learned how to pulp fabric and paper materials, and how to pull sheets of paper. The experience was very mind-opening for me and I found a medium that really spoke to me as an artist.
Now, two years later, I've added art education as one of my studies and I'm teaching paper-making workshops by myself. I've made paper from non-recyclable paper products in the city of Milwaukee such as pizza boxes, to-go bags, and tissue paper, as well as recycled UWM brochures and clothes that were ready to be retired from wear. The beautiful thing about papermaking aside from its therapeutic properties is its accessibility. It's something that can easily be done at home once you learn!
Fall 2021 - Drew Mattot @ MIAD
DVC Senior Thesis (part one)
Fall 2022 - MPS Fratney La Escuella
Fall 2022 - UWM Community Arts @ Milwaukee Oats
Spring 2023 - UWM Union Studio Arts and Craft Centre
