Papier Art - The work of paper artist Pierrette Vergne

I started working with paper 15 years ago while studying for a degree in Decorative Arts at Nottingham Trent University in England, but it was the discovery of an ancient Oriental technique that originally captured my imagination. This was to be the catalyst for my future exploration of various methods of paper manipulation.

Starting with a fresh sheet of white paper, it undergoes various processes: dyeing, inking, printing, crumpling, stretching, shaping, knotting, etc. I give rhythm to drawings or marks and distill images down to colours and textures. Organic, sculptural forms are created in paper-relief. 

I try to 'understand' the paper through its strength and fragility whilst staying aware of the unknown. The secret lies inside the paper and the fold keeps its own memory. Through this approach my work becomes naturally abstract in gathering and representing the essence of my observations. This way of working is personal and is evolving all the time.

My influences are broad, often from nature, and also from memories and feelings, usually based on drawings. Light and its contrasts, texture and writing also play an important role. My work owes much to the depth and variety of my initial training, covering modules such as paper, glass, printing and embroidery, broadly encompassing the disciplines of Fine Arts, Crafts and Design, and which are all reflected in my creations.

I hope you enjoy looking at my work, Pierrette.