Providence, Rhode Island | October 19 – 21, 2023
PAPER TIDES
During the process of papermaking, water moves like oscillating currents. Fiber, pulp, equipment, and tools come together with the flow of water in the hands of a papermaker. In the water, fibers circulate and then connect and form bonds. In papermaking, water ebbs and flows, like river currents or the tide, making things completely different. Just as important, water plays a significant role in moving and connecting material, similar to its effect on Rhode Island’s topography, spanning 400 miles of shoreline and miles of intersecting rivers. Water is the driving force of reinvention and innovation in textiles, craft, and paper.
The conference schedule is here below the announcements. Any last minute information will appear on this page.
PAPER TIDES, our 2023 North American Hand Papermakers Conference, will focus on the ways that papermaking practices, methods, techniques, research, education, and technology act like water in completely re-shaping materials and landscapes. Please join us in Providence, Rhode Island, from Oct 19-21, co-sponsored by Rhode Island School of Design’s Fleet Library, Paper Connection International and the New England Chapter of the American Printing History Association. With the Elaine Koretsky Memorial Address from distinguished sofer Shel Bassel on traditional Hebrew calligraphy, the Anita Lynn Forgach Keynote Address from founder and art director at the Morgan Conservatory, Tom Balbo, and many other engaging presentations, demos, and panels by leaders and innovators in the field. More than 24 speakers and 8 demonstrators will share their latest work on topics ranging from ancient and modern papermaking techniques, book arts, tools, slow craft, collaborative models, sustainable practices, educational strategies, and innovation through techniques and research.
WHERE TO STAY
There are a couple of hotels that we have reserved for room blocks during our conference for a special rate. Read more about select hotel options, sharing rooms, and other recommendations.
Local Food Recommendations
A list of recommendations for local eateries for food drinks, and coffee/tea near and around RISD, and Providence area.
SCHOLARSHIPS
This year, we are offering limited scholarships for those who would not be able to attend with out financial assistance. The deadline for scholarship has passed. Read more about our program and requirements.
KEEPSAKE EXCHANGE
Our in-person meeting have long featured keepsake exchanges, for many of us this is the best part of meeting in person. If you want to participate in the keepsake exchange, please being an edition of 75-100 of your handmade paper keepsake. In 2023 our handmade portfolios are being made from UW-Madison Design Studies department, Paper Connection International, and DWRI Press.
Trade Fair
See the list of vendors for the annual trade fair in Providence. People include tool and equipment suppliers, papermakers and artists, publishers, and many others! (Even if you can’t come to Providence, you can still be in touch with the vendors.)
