Cranbrook Fiber Workshop: Expanded Paper Sculpture

This three-day workshop explores the sculptural potential of paper pulp, blending traditional papier-mâché techniques with contemporary pulp painting applications.

Participants will work with cotton linters, construction paper, and natural pigments to create vibrant, dimensional surfaces on cardboard structures.

Using nichos as a point of inspiration, we will focus on storytelling through form, color, and materiality. The workshop is designed to be flexible for different skill levels, allowing each participant to develop their creative approach to expanded paper sculpture.

By the end of this workshop, participants will take home:

• A dry‑and‑ready mixed‑media paper pulp sculpture on their design—complete with dyed pulp layers, construction paper accents, and structural reinforcement—roughly 6–8″ tall (size may vary).

Instructor: Meli Bandera (CAA MFA Fiber 2024)
Instructor Language: English

Skill Level: This workshop is open to beginners and advanced students, age 18+.
Max. participants: 10

Location: Fiber department of Cranbrook Academy of Art in the New Studios Building.
Parking: Cranbrook Art Museum Parking Lot.

Length: 3 Days, 7 hours each day (August 7-9)
Food/Beverage: Lunch and snacks will be provided during the workshop. The Academy also has water bottle refill stations and vending machines near the Fiber department.

Cost: 450.00 USD*
Materials provided with the cost of the workshop: a variety of materials to create paper pulp, construction paper for accents, and cardboard for structural supports.

Studio Dress/Recommended Accessories: All participants should wear clothing and shoes they don't mind getting stained or dirty. Comfortable closed-toe shoes, an apron, and a hair tie/bandana are recommended. You may also want to bring:

• A small towel or rag for wiping hands
• A notebook and pen for jotting ideas

*If the workshop does not meet the minimum participants, it will be cancelled, and any purchases will be fully refunded.

Info: An introduction to paper as a sculptural medium, demonstration, and hands-on construction of structural bases.

Info: Introduction of pulp application, demonstrations, hands-on application of pulp layers, developing compositions.

Info: Finishing touches and detailing with construction paper accents, sculptural additions, and other surface manipulation. Group discussion and reflection. Optional critique session.

Also check out other Workshops in Bloomfield Hills, Arts events in Bloomfield Hills, Fine Arts events in Bloomfield Hills.