Artist Statement--Georgie Cunningham
I
began my career as a graphic designer and then found that my interests in hand papermaking, fiber, and weaving were taking
me in an entirely new direction. I now spend my studio time making paper and creating woven paper tapestries, handmade paper
screens, and wall hangings.
I use a traditional method of papermaking: submerging a mould and a deckle into a vat
of pulp and raising to drain for a single sheet. Some sheets I dry naturally in the sun, but I prefer to dry in a weighted
drying rack, which produces a flatter sheet. Using rich, bold color and repeating patterns, I weave my handmade paper with
an assortment of mixed media.
My love for the Silk Road cultures has influenced not only the appearance of my work,
but also the manner in which it is created. I believe every part of nature is precious so nothing should be wasted. My paper
is an extension of the lives of the plants I use. All my scrap bits of paper and fiber go back into the vat to become a new
sheet, water used for rinsing and soaking becomes dye.
Even though many of my pieces represent specific places
or events, I believe that art is individual and private. I do not expect others to have the visual experience I had in creating
them,. but rather one of their own. Thus, artist and viewer share in the artistic experience.
Georgie Cunningham
makes and weaves paper in her studio in the Texas Hill Country, signing her works only on the back so her signature does not
detract from the viewers artistic experience.
Is nature seen from man's view
and nature's view
the same?
If man is part of nature,
than nature comes first.
Akihiko Izukura
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