Thresholds, RSA University of Reading, MA final Degree Show

September 10th – 13th, 2026

Paper pine River (2026),

Handmade paper made from plant pulp, Pine needles, 300gsm Arches watercolour paper, watercolour, watercolour pencils.

730*750mm

I made this paper inspired by the quality of Japanese Kozo paper made from the bark of the mulberry tree. My paper is not nearly as robust nor does it have the translucent quality, but it is extremely fragile. This led to a desire to see how much stress it could withstand, so I threaded it with pine needles. Pine needles have been used to make paper pulp in the past and there is a renewed interest today to help make paper production more sustainable. It was surprising how much water was required to make it. Paper mills have often been located next to rivers due to the amount of water required to make it, transportation and hydroelectric power was used to power the mills prior to the invention of electricity. I had been doing some creative writing about rivers and decided to incorporate it though it is not legible. The text is reproduced below.

River

Fluid force unstoppable flow concrete over me dam me try to contain my body I will divert the paths of your abundancy brooding with the debris of your prolific source I take it on I take it on board through my current waking dirge pushing power less rage more calm less volume more rage concentrated over the rocks it heaves running rapid running quietly simmer down still choking for air this site for exchange embellished with gold gilts wilting heavy I await the consistency of your greed to bed down I am taking with me all that you inter.