Jan Alison Edwards and Ophélie Pauchet

Walking and collecting each day for the past 25 years in my valley situated in the Cevennes region of France, dominated by the acid soil, schist rock formations, torrential rains in autumn and roasting sun in summer. Handmade papers from the plants with added natural pigments and found natural objects, combining colour, texture and form to evoke the valley landscape and soil and weather patterns.

 

Strongly influenced by the Land Art movement of the 60s as well as J.M.W. Turner, Landscape painter; Georges Braque, Cubisim & Joseph Bouys. I discovered the art of papermaking in the studio of Maureen Richardson many years before studying at art college.

 

Developing my own methodology and work practise based on conceptual ideas around the polarisation of humankind’s relationship with nature. I work in nature with nature and try to create a dialogue between myself and the natural environment. Combining traditional and modern techniques and materials I often use plants fibres growing on my land I choose the fibre or medium relevant to the particular concept. My works generally come under the theme of A Sense of Place, often very different places.   

 

Recipient of the English Riviera Winter Open Exhibition 2022 // Innovative Practice Award

Mixed Media | Handmade Plant Papers, Natural Pigments, Wax, Gelatine, Found Natural Objects

25x25x4cm per piece