On Paper - exploring Somerset paper heritage through handmade books

Somerset has a rich history of paper making, from the Mill at Wookey Hole first referenced in 1610, to the handmade papers still in production at Two Rivers, Watchet. A local group of book artists are now shining a spotlight on that heritage with their new exhibition at Wells Museum, which runs from 6-10 May.

Expect to be amazed by the creative structures and fascinating content that this dedicated group of artists, printmakers and poets have produced over the past year, as well as finding out more about Somerset’s renowned paper making mills.

On display will be unique artists’ books and prints resulting from experiments with Wookey Hole’s wonderfully tactile paper. Since 2012, ABCD (Artists Book Club Dove) meets each month at Dove Studios, Butleigh. Inspiring conversations and skills exchanges prompt fresh explorations of materials, techniques and ideas among the group.

On Paper features work by ABCD artists (Janine Barchard, Ama Bolton, Bronwen Bradshaw, Clare Diprose, Nina Gronw Lewis, Diana Illingworth-Cook, Jane Paterson, Pauline Pearce, Judith Staines, Pat Wolseley & Judy Warbey), joined by guest artist Kari Furre from Devon, and guest international book artist Adele Outteridge from Australia.