The art of papier-mâché is experiencing a renaissance, with contemporary artists like Joel Hernandez and Bernie Kaminski pushing the boundaries of the medium in new and exciting ways.
Hernandez, a Mexican-born artist now based in San Francisco, first discovered papier-mâché as a child when his parents couldn’t find piñatas in rural Indiana. Today, he creates vibrant and animated face coverings that reflect his own identity as a gay man. His masks have been showcased in galleries and sold online, gaining recognition for their unique and personal touch.
Meanwhile, Kaminski, a New York City-based artist and media producer, uses papier-mâché to recreate everyday objects from a bygone era. His work is a nostalgic reflection on items like taxi receipts and film rolls that have been replaced by modern technology. Kaminski’s intricate process involves cutting up the actual objects and reconstructing them with paper and paint, adding a layer of depth and detail to his creations.
Both artists exemplify the versatility and accessibility of papier-mâché, a medium that has been used for centuries in cultures around the world. From ancient Chinese helmets to modern-day Mardi Gras floats, papier-mâché continues to captivate artists and audiences alike with its ability to transform simple materials into works of art.
