Calvin Nicholls Paper Sculpture

The process - from sketch to sculpture

Many clients call with a specific idea and offer their own rough sketch to provide me with some direction. Others may have
subject matter established but request that I present my thoughts in the form of preliminary drawings. The most challenging and
often most rewarding assignments are those which begin with a simple theme or message that is to be represented.
The technique - adding texture and form
Initially a rigid form is constructed which establishes the contours of the subject and provides a stable base upon which the detail
pieces are attached. Each component is cut and tetured through the use of a collection of wooden and metal tools. I monitor the
interaction of light and shadow on the sculpture as I work and with its completion! I create a more elaborate set with sophisticated
studio lights. "inal enhancements are made at this stage prior to photography.
Photography - the full effect
I have never felt that my work is complete until I have photographed it. In most cases this is out of necessity as quite often my
images are reproduced in prints or corporate campaigns. The photographic process occurs within the studio as a natural
progression on my schedule.
Archival Originals - durability and permanence
The inherent strength and archival quality of my monochromatic paper sculptures assures an etremely high degree of
permanence. The fine art papers and adhesives used are chemically stable. The papers that I select are either #$$% cotton rag or
p& neutral! lignen based papers which have been buffered during the manufacturing process through the addition of calcium
carbonate or magnesium carbonate. These papers are as a result able to resist the effects of air bome acids over time and prevent
the yellowing and embrittlement which is common in newsprint and other everyday papers which are highly acidic.
Methyl cellulose or polyvinyl acetate adhesives are used in the assembly of my sculptures 'and are also both considered p&
neutral and permanent. These products are often used in the production and restoration of fine books.
Framing - focal point for home or office
(lassic or contemporary wooden moldings of between two and four inches in depth are used with double mats and glass. )s
stable as my paper sculptures are! considering display conditions remain crucial as with the display of any artwork or care of fine
furniture and fabrics. Etremes in humidity and prolonged eposure to direct sunlight should always be avoided. *egular glass is
appropriate in most situations however uv reflecting glass can be considered in areas of high sunlight eposure. (orporate clients
often specify pleiglass which is uv reflecting and shatterproof making it ideal for artwork which is often transported and
displayed at trade shows and events.
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