The next time you’re at the Essex Studios, check out the new display in the lucite cases outside CBAS Studio #164. Featured is work by gifted local papermakers and longtime CBAS members Margaret (Peg) Rhein and Lou Kroner highlighting the wide range of colors, textures and weights possible when using plants in hand papermaking.
Especially interesting to this viewer are the ways in which handmade papers can be used in unexpected ways to create both three-dimensional and wall-hanging work, the effects of natural dyes like indigo and walnut on different papers, and the possibilities of making beautiful papers made from invasive plants. When you weed your garden next spring you will look at that lesser celandine with a far kinder eye.
Many thanks to Peg and Lou for providing work for the display, and for their time and generosity in presenting two well-attended Study Group sessions on the topic for CBAS members on July 20 and 21.
A selection of Peg Rhein’s papers made with plants, including labelled sheets identifying the plants used, and book structures built using her handmade papers.
Lou Kroner’s work showcasing wall-hanging pieces, cards, an accordion book of samples, and the use of natural dyes in plant-based papermaking.
