Don Widmer
Ore Dock no. 1

Media: Flax pulp painting on kozo/hasta/cotton/linen paper with metallic foil and paper scrap inclusions

Artist Statement:
Ore docks were used by the steel industry to transport ore from the mines to the ships. They were imposing structures. This lonely, abandoned structure surrounded by water has a spiritual quality, especially with the light appearing at the end of the long tunnel. The softness of paper, its imprecise delineations and blurred lines, contrast with the severity of the concrete and steel structures I seek to represent, creating a dreamlike quality. People comment that these pieces evoke memories, reminding us that our built environments become integral to our personal histories.

Biography

Don Widmer is a book and paper artist whose work incorporates papermaking, letterpress printing, and artist bookbinding. His papermaking utilizes a process called pulp painting, where pigmented plant material (pulp) is used as a painting medium.  Don has exhibited throughout the Midwest, most recently at The Morgan Conservatory and Kalamazoo Book Arts Center.  His book Fanny and the Doll Corpse, inspired by Chicagoan Frances Glessner Lee, was recently added to the Smithsonian's artist book collection.