Natural Materials and 2D Mixed Media
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As an artist, I make a unique style of handmade paper with native wildflowers imbedded in the paper. I create my art using several techniques and mediums. By combining handmade paper, botanicals, and glass, I make an assortment of functional and decorative pieces. My work starts by gathering wildflowers, a year round task, when the blossoms are at their peak condition. I make handmade paper from recycled household fiber of my family and friends. I use a variety of recycled materials including: computer paper, junk mail, paper grocery bags, tissue paper & paper towels. The first step in my papermaking process is to hand shred and soak the fiber. The fibers are then further separated with a kitchen blender. I gather flowers and plants, add them to the paper soup, and pour the resulting soup onto a screen. Then, I allow the paper & flowers to dry in the sun, on the screen. Once dried, the final step is to cut the new sheet of paper into bookmarks, note cards, or backgrounds for glass paperweights & magnets and then package them for sale. This completes the preserving process and stabilizes the fragile flowers and plants. I am able to retain much of the flowers’ natural colors by using my original techniques and handmade equipment. My vision is to capture and preserve the natural beauty of Kentucky’s wildflowers so that they can be enjoyed for years. |
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Luanne Vermillion |
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