Paper mache core

I am thrilled about the fact that I found a way to make concrete look delicate and soft rather than fuel what is common about concrete - the invasive, cool, heavy, brutalist and industrial characteristics.

In order to determine a shape, I find it helps to model a core in paper pache first. When I add further layers of concrete mixes, both materials form a solid and stable bond.

As explained in a previous posts about using fire

https://sandraholleart.blogspot.com/2021/05/work-in-progress-so-far-part-three.html

I applied this method of using the combustable properties of paper and the staining effects of smoke to the following objects. It enabled me to literally refer to inflammation and the loss of cognitive function as a possible result, e.g. showing as brain fog or vertigo... but also create intriguing visual and tactile results:

1 using a previous hand built bowl as a forma to create a thin paper mache core; 2 adding several layers of concrete mix to both sides; 3 leaving the edges exposed for fire treatment; 4 burnt away paper mache leaves ragged edges and smoky patina on the white concrete. #decline #tissuedamage #inflammation

Top side of balancing bowl with organically shaped features, inlays, polished surface and a darkened rim for haptic exploration

 

From top left: initial small clay model with wire structure and oxide staining as a guide for the concrete piece; Wire structure of steel wire and hand looped copper mesh; partial covering in paper mache; gradual build up of concrete; burning away excess paper mache with blow torch, creating a diversely textured surface

Final result: whats's left of a tubular shape, wire core and distressed concrete visible underneath the remnants of a smooth and almost pristine protective layer #tissuedamage #inflammation #corrosion