Every Thursday this summer, Gwartzman’s will be hosting a mixed media art night at our pop-up location at Creeds Cafe, 450 Dupont Street. This week we had the pleasure and opportunity to host one of our favourite paper suppliers in Canada: The Japanese Paper Place.
Beyond just the materials, the collaboration highlighted the shared values between Gwartzman’s and The Japanese Paper Place. Through hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations, participants learned not only the techniques but also the cultural significance of washi paper. It was a delightful experience that celebrated the art of paper crafting and brought our artistic community closer together.
Paper art is a perfect summer holiday activity to get crafty and learn about an ancient practice. Read about how we collaborated with The Japanese Paper Place to show just how inventive washi paper collages can be.
History of Washi Paper
Washi paper has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years in Japan. Originally developed during the Asuka period (538-710 AD), washi paper was made using fibres from the inner bark of the gampi tree, mitsumata shrub, or paper mulberry. The process of creating washi is labour-intensive and requires great skill, as it involves hand-harvesting the fibres, soaking, boiling, and then meticulously hand-stretching and drying the paper. This traditional method results in a durable yet delicate paper that is highly valued for its strength, texture, and longevity.
Throughout history, washi paper has been used in various applications, from religious texts and official documents to everyday items like lanterns, fans, and clothing. Its versatility and aesthetic appeal have also made it a popular choice for artists and craftsmen. In modern times, washi paper continues to be celebrated for its unique qualities and is often used in fine art, bookbinding, and interior design. By incorporating washi paper into our mixed media art nights, Gwartzman’s and The JPP hope to pay homage to this ancient craft and allow participants to experience the timeless beauty and functionality of washi.
What You Can Create From Washi Paper
The possibilities of what you can create from washi paper are only limited by your imagination. At our last art night with The JPP, participants discovered that washi paper can be used for everything from:
- intricate collages and mixed media pieces
- to elegant greeting cards
- and handmade journals.
Washi’s unique texture and durability make it ideal for a variety of artistic projects, allowing artists to experiment with layering, folding, and even sculpting. The vibrant colours and intricate patterns of washi paper add a distinct flair to any creation, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind.
In addition to traditional art forms, washi paper is also perfect for modern applications like scrapbooking, gift wrapping, and home décor. Its strength and flexibility make it suitable for creating delicate paper flowers, lanterns, and other decorative items that can add a touch of elegance to any space. Whether you’re an experienced artist or a beginner, the versatility of washi paper offers endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression.
Our collaboration with The Japanese Paper Place has shown that with a little imagination and the right materials, anyone can create stunning works of art that reflect the timeless beauty of washi paper.
Why We Love Working with The Japanese Paper Place
Our collaboration with The Japanese Paper Place has been a remarkable one. Filled with creativity, inspiration, and a shared passion for quality. The story of The Japanese Paper Place began in 1975 when Nancy Jacobi, teaching in Japan, was captivated by the exquisite beauty of traditional Japanese papers. She envisioned the incredible artistic potential these papers could unlock if brought to Canada. Her dream took shape in 1982 with the opening of The Japanese Paper Place retail store in Toronto, aiming to inspire and educate artists about the versatility of washi paper.
At Gwartzman's, our journey started in 1950, with a commitment to provide high-quality art supplies to artists in Toronto. Like The Japanese Paper Place, we believe in nurturing creativity and supporting artists with the best materials. Over the years, we've grown into a beloved institution, known for our dedication to the art community. Our collaboration with The Japanese Paper Place is a perfect match, as both our businesses share a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and a mission to promote creativity.
Keep Updated with Future Paper-Filled Events at Our Summer Pop-Up
Did you miss this event? No fret. Throughout the summer we will be hosting more invigorating and hands-on classes and workshops with companies like The Japanese Paper Place.
Stay updated on our upcoming Art Nights by following us on social media. In the meantime, join us every Thursday evening for a fun, creative, and social experience at our mixed media art nights. Discover new techniques, meet fellow artists, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Creeds Cafe, 450 Dupont Street, in The Annex.
Let’s craft a creative vision together.
