PaperJoy Studio is run by artist Kelly M O’Brien, offering bespoke paper art originals and hand-embellished prints for hospitality and important residential projects. Kelly and her team create elegant unique pieces, series, and multiples that enhance and elevate high-end design projects.
Playing with Fire
Stitch
As part of Somerset Reacquainted, I was invited to contribute a page-spread for a collaborative artist book reflecting the project.
All of the bio-resin casting tests I did over the winter are finally coming into play with a new piece I recently completed for our traveling group exhibition Inch by IN:CH
When I get an idea for new work that might be suitable for PaperJoy Studio, the first stage is to experiment.
During a year when everything changed and every day has felt the same, in no way did I see silver linings emerging from this moment. And yet, it's been one of those tough-love growth periods that seem to happen when real challenge is at hand.
With high expectations for a year to ride the momentum of my MFA degree, the screeching halt to all external markers of progress felt that much more impactful.
I decided to remove work from my inventory that no longer fits my practice. These four pieces are now in our wildflower meadow, left to deteriorate naturally, which I am documenting throughout the year.
As an artist, I have a platform to catalyze conversation and change. With the world on fire, I don’t feel that I have the luxury of isolating in the studio. These enormous challenges need all of us to get in the ring to make this world a better place.
Last week I was supposed to be in Lisbon starting a PADA Residency, my first significant post-MFA international opportunity. I was beyond excited to be accepted and anticipating the month-long experience, embedded with five other amazing artists, with a mix of excitement, anxiety, and sheer joy.
I've had my head down in the studio, testing ideas and making smaller works as possible prototypes for larger pieces and an installation later this year.
When I'm in the thick of it all, I don't always look at the big picture. Every year I make a point to reflect on the year as a whole, and 2019 is no different.
I was very pleased to test my first Residency of Repair (pictured above), something I hope to investigate further next year.
