Skip to content
Michael Velliquette, “Deva Realms” (2023), 90 hanging forms of Bristol paper and string, approx. 1,500 components, dimensions variable

Against the Ream: An Expansive Exhibition Invites Thirteen Artists to Explore the Vast ‘Possibilities of Paper’

From intricate, laser-cut tendrils to vibrantly patterned collages, a new exhibition at The Torggler in Newport News, Virginia, explores the vast potential of a conventionally utilitarian material. Possibilities of Paper brings together thirteen artists from around the U.S. and Canada who have developed practices centered around experimentation and precision, employing a diverse range of techniques and styles that transform an everyday medium into elaborate works of art.

Wall works, freestanding sculptures, and large-scale installations comprise the comprehensive look at paper-based art being made today, including a monumental piece by Michael Velliquette suspended from the ceiling, Samuelle Green’s immersive sphere made of thousands of petals, and Roberto Benavidez’s piñatas inspired by the frenzied characters of Hieronymus Bosch. Many of the artists begin their compositions using pristine, new sheets of paper, while others reinterpret objects like books, maps, and paper plates into woven or carved forms. You might also recognize work from Myriam Dion, Matthew Shlian, and Eric Standley, among others.

An installation view of a salon-style artwork by Charles Clary.
Charles Clary, “Memento Morididdle” (2023), hand-cut paper and found frames, 96 x 240 inches. All images courtesy of the artists and the Torggler Fine Arts Center, © the artists, shared with permission

Advertisement

Possibilities of Paper continues at The Torggler through October 15, and you can learn more on the gallery’s website.

An installation of hand-cut paper on the floor and hanging from the ceiling.
Jaq Belcher, “All in Good Time” (2023), hand-cut paper, dimensions variable. Courtesy of Jayne H. Baum/JHB Gallery
Two images. The left shows hand-cut paper. The right shows a piñata fashioned after a character from Hieronymus Bosch.
Left: Detail of Charles Clary’s “Memento Morididdle” (2023). Right: Roberto Benavidez, “Bosch Beast No. 4” (2017), paper, paperboard, glue, crepe paper, and wire, 36 x 22 x 12 inches
A ball of paper viewed through a curtain of folded pieces of paper.
Samuelle Green, “Marshmallow Polypore II” (2023), paper, wire, glue, and wood, dimensions variable
The interior of an immersive ball made of paper.
Detail of Samuelle Green’s “Marshmallow Polypore II” (2023)

Advertisement

A detail of several framed collages with hand-cut paper details.
Detail of Charles Clary’s “Memento Morididdle” (2023)
An overview of an installation of numerous hand-cut paper artworks in colorful frames.
Eric Standley, “Drift” (2022), 48 compositions of laser-cut paper and 23k gold leaf, 12 x 9 x 1.5 inches each
Two images. The left shows a detail of some laser-cut paper artworks in colorful frames. The image of the right shows an intricately cut sculpture from paper.
Left: Detail of Eric Standley’s “Drift” (2022). Right: Detail of Eric Standley’s “Llull” (2020), laser-cut paper, wood, and 23k gold leaf, 48 x 16 x 5 inches
An installation view of 'Possibilities of Paper.'
Foreground: Elizabeth Alexander, “Welder’s Daughter: The Waiting Room” (2020), iron filings from parents’ steel work, rust made with filings, graphite, face shield, paper, cast paper, and wood, 144 x 120 x 40 inches. Background: Charles Clary, “Memento Morididdle” (2023)

Related articles