Handmade papers reflect artist’s vision
“We must never forget that art is not a form of propaganda; it is a form of truth.” John F. Kennedy (1917-1963), 35th American president, Address, Amherst College, October 1963
For those of us who live in Las Vegas, we know that we are a city of contradictions and misconceptions. When the city is mentioned in the national press, it is usually more negative than positive; we are known for a lot of things, but never the artistic talent that resides in this city.
Several years ago I, along with several others, founded an organization called ADAS, Architectural and Decorative Arts Society (www.adas-lv.com), in an effort to recognize and publicize the wealth of talent here in our valley. In fostering this organization, and while I had the privilege of being the editor of Southern Nevada Home and Garden magazine, I have known and featured many artists, from every medium.
Continuing along those lines, I would like to introduce you to an artist I met about a year ago, and with whom I have been so impressed. Meet Kathy Cartier, a longtime fiber artist. Her past artistic works have ranged from wearable art to quilts, but now her emphasis is on papermaking and fiber artworks.
I met Cartier at a social event where she was displaying her wearable art and some small items such as greeting cards and fabric dolls. It was much later that I discovered her amazing talent in creating custom wall art for your home or business.
“My work consists primarily of large-scale, three-dimensional, mixed-media collage paintings and vessels, all created of handmade paper,” explained Cartier.
Yes, she makes her own paper. Here’s how it’s done.
“I fabricate the paper by preparing Oriental fibers kozo, gampi and mitsumata. By carefully preparing the fibers, the pulp is formed. A deckle (screen) is submerged into the pulp to collect the fibers that form the paper. Once the paper is made, I mold it onto rocks and other textured surfaces to create reliefs. I use inks, dyes, pigments, acrylics, metallic powders and various solar painting methods to create color. Silk and cashmere fibers are added for textural interest.”
Cartier continues, “For reflective qualities, gem stones and pearlescent glass beads are sewn into the paper. I also use metal fragments that act as accents. The shapes are evident, but the textures remain dominant.”
Having seen the art of so many talented artists, I was truly blown away by this medium. While most of her canvasses are large and contemporary in style, she is a custom artist and can produce her client’s desire.
There are different reasons for choosing custom art. You may have a unique home, room, color scheme or you may just want something that not everyone will have.
Keep these facts in mind. Choosing art for your home is such a personal choice, and, oftentimes, having a custom piece is the answer. Having custom art created is like having clothes tailor-made. You will definitely pay more for the privilege, but the rewards are worth the price. If you are having custom art made, you will develop a relationship with the artist, and you must be very clear about what you expect. Ask for a sketch and also request viewings as the piece progresses. Doing this will guarantee that the end product will turn out the way you intended.
If you would like more information on Cartier’s work, you can visit her Web site at www.kathycartier.com.
Carolyn Muse Grant is a founder and immediate past president of the Architectural & Decorative Arts Society, as well as an interior design consultant/stylist specializing in home staging. Send questions to creativemuse@cox.net.
