"In the MOOd" by Kelly Schmutte (2001)
"It is more than just a support medium. It has its own history and soul." (Arches website)
For my project, I chose to research the prestigious French papermaking company Arches and its speciality product: watercolor paper. As an artist who particularly enjoys watercolor, I realize the importance of painting on the highest quality paper in order to express the full potential of this beautiful medium. Having exclusively used Arches paper for my projects, I decided it was time I learn more about this world-known paper maker and their time-honored art of papermaking.
Overview: What is the role of craftsmanship and tradition?
The Art of Watercolor: A Brief History
The Arches Mill: Early Beginnings
A Time-Honored Manufacturing Process
Reflecting on my First Experience with Arches
Artists Speak About Arches
Comparing Brands: A Trip to University Art
How Do We Define Craftsmanship?
The Verdict: Testing Different Papers
A Few Concluding Thoughts
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Ten Things 2006: Projects
Questions or comments? Post your thoughts below...
Posted at Feb 22/2006 01:10PM:
[klfsong]: Is it the paper that makes the art? Does it make art more valuable? Is it like having a Louis Vuitton canvis bag in that it's cool regardless of whats inside it?
Posted at Apr 10/2006 03:04AM:
Sebastian De Vivo: Kelly, this is a wonderful project -- I especially liked how you managed to explore two different yet complimentary lines of research: the one about the branding of a product (and how the branding seems to configure people’s perceptions of an artifact), and the other how it actually performs on the ground. Looking into how the company uses its long history to position the paper (even against the older Fabriano), through your own experience and the two artists you interviewed was also crucial. You outlined your questions at the outset, explored them thoroughly and elegantly, used great images to illustrate the project, with a clear navigation. I very much enjoyed this project -- wonderful job!
