'Pulp' is a hand papermaking arts workshop based in WASPS factory Glasgow, which provides a range of services for experienced artists as well as those just beginning to explore this versatile medium. There are a variety of activities held within the space including evening, weekend and day courses. These focus on all aspects of hand papermaking, artist bookmaking and related media and aim to encou
rage creative participation from all walks of life with all levels of experience accommodated. The workshop provides supported access to specialist equipment that is exceptional in its professionalism and scale. There is always technical assistance available to ensure satisfaction from both the learning experience and the outcomes produced. Equipment at the workshop includes a 5lb Hollander Beater, large hydraulic press, large vats and various moulds for paper size up to 30” x 40”. A recent move to Hanson Street studio offers more space, good accessibility and a comfortable working environment with adjacent cafe open most days. In addition to the internal activities, there is provision for collaborations, commissions and external art projects on behalf of host organisations working in areas such as the arts, environmental awareness, healthcare and education. Many successful workshops in schools, hospitals, country parks and special events have been undertaken with portable equipment and quality materials to ensure good outcomes. Due to the versatility of the medium, workshop content can be directed accordingly. Proposals for collaborative projects are welcome and, as a practising artist, I consider short residencies, exhibition opportunities and staff training events. Pulp was set-up in March 2005 after many years of study and firsthand experience of working within participatory art settings. My qualifications include a BA(hons) in Fine Art Printmaking and M.Phil Art & Design in Organisational Contexts, both from Glasgow School of Art. The M.Phil research was based on ‘The Artist as Facilitator within Multiple Settings’ and involved an evaluation of papermaking as a therapeutic, participatory art activity. Professional development has taken me to Tokushima to study Japanese papermaking and craft and I have facilitated projects for many organisations over the past 18 years. This work has often involved mentoring support artists and volunteers, monitoring, evaluation and budget management, as well as planning and executing project activities. Curating and exhibiting project work has also been an important part of my activities as an artist practitioner. Recent activities include CPD at Findhorn, Moray where I spent some time learning about Peace Paper project and the therapeutic outcomes when working with veterans and victims of abuse, a commission to produce the unique paper for the Queen’s Message held within the Commonwealth Games Baton for Glasgow 2014 and hosting a student placement for City of Glasgow College.
