Accidental Gifts
The transformation of paper
Sea Weed by Janna Syvänoja
See
Notice how Syvänoja’s recycled papers influence the impact of her pieces as they twist, lean and morph from geometric to organic forms.
Found material as itself is important. It is not only a tool to create form or decorate, but it also refers to its own past or its conception. -Janna Syvänoja
Say
What is the significance of keeping the material’s identity recognizable?
What is your reaction to seeing a telephone book transformed into a sculpture? Does it add true value? Who decides?
How would you feel if she used more valuable books in her art? (Or library books?!!)
Do
Choose your favorite piece above. What does it remind you of?
Make some paper beads.
Get an old book or map and transform it.
About Janna Syvänoja:
Born 3/3/1960 in Helsinki
Janna Syvänoja is a Finnish artist who, by a slow and meditative process, creates art jewelry from recycled paper. Using such fragile material, she is able to create depth in form, each slice meticulously layered by hand. Often the original purpose of the material can be read on the surface. Old maps induce a topographical feel, while lines of text evoke soft patterns.
Syvänoja studied fine art (sculpture, drawing, painting, etc.) during the 80s while there was a growing awareness of environmental issues. She began creating recycled paper jewelry and though she had no formal training in jewelry design, she credits her success to her background as a furniture designer. She creates her pieces piece by piece without the use of glue.
Paper Jewelry and Paper Sculpture
I can make the rules, but the piece takes the shape of its own. When certain formed components start to follow each other and find their rhythm in my hands, the miracle happens. It is a slow, meditative, and a very natural process. I use printed paper, maps, catalogs, dictionary books. They are rich by their past, carrying along certain places and accidental meanings. This material also gives the pieces their individual exterior and interior decoration – their ornaments. I see wood, stone, bone, feather, fur, field, velvet.
Read interview with Jessica Hughes in the Art Jewelry Forum.
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