Workshop: Japanese Papermaking

Did you know that Japanese paper called washi (Japanese paper) was used to preserve the Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration of Independence? 

In this demonstration, papermaker Michelle Wilson will take participants through the steps of making Japanese style paper, better known as washi. Washi, often incorrectly referred to as rice paper, is known for its great strength while appearing delicate and gossamer-thin. This demonstration will be begun with processing the fiber known as kо̄zo（楮; こうぞ）through cleaning (chiritori) and hand beating, to the sheet formation technique known as nagashizuki (流し漉き). At the end of the demonstration, participants will have a chance to try out some of the steps of making paper themselves. 

About Michelle Wilson:

Michelle Wilson is an interdisciplinary thinker, whose work involves papermaking, printmaking, book arts, installation and social practice.

She has exhibited her work both internationally and in the United States, including participation in biennials such as Philadelphia's Philagrafika 2010 and the 2006 Second International Biennial for the Artist's Book in Alexandria, Egypt. Her practice includes frequent collaborations with other artists, in particular her ongoing collaboration with Anne Beck as the Rhinoceros Project.

Artist-in-Residence programs that she is an alumna of include the David and Julia White Colony in Ciudad Colon, Costa Rica, the Jentel Artist Residency Program, in Banner, Wyoming, the San José Museum of Quilts and Textiles, and LAB-8’s Riabitare con l'Arte program in Abruzzo, Italy.  In addition, she served as a Teaching Artist for the NIAD Art Center, (Richmond, CA) and Southern Exposure’s program at the Oakland Juvenile Hall. 

Space limited. Reservations required.

Connect: 

Michelle Wilson - Website | Michelle Wilson - Instagram | Michelle Wilson - Rhinoceros Project

Note: For those who may wish to try making paper, papermaking is a wet activity. Please wear clothing and shoes that can get wet.