This 5-day training course aims to rediscover this rare craft, teaching participants the techniques for manufacturing, molding, and finishing papier-mâché. It is intended for professionals or enthusiasts in the fields of heritage preservation, decorative arts, or theater, who wish to learn an almost forgotten technique that holds remarkable artistic and historical value. Through hands-on workshops and theoretical sessions, participants will have the opportunity to work with this unique material and contribute to preserving a craft that is in danger of disappearing.

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

• Identify the historical context, traditional applications, and reasons for the decline of this material
• Prepare the materials necessary for making papier-mâché
• Apply decorative finishes
• Integrate papier-mâché into artistic creations, decorative projects, or heritage conservation initiatives

Paper mache is an old material that is now rarely used and largely unknown to the general public. Once widely used to create lightweight decorative ornaments imitating stone or stucco, it is made from a mixture of paper pulp, glue, chalk, and sometimes plaster or sawdust. This process allowed for the creation of molded elements that were easy to handle, inexpensive, and offered a visual appearance very similar to that of more prestigious materials. At its peak in the 19th century, paper mache was used in theater sets, interior design, exhibitions, and some religious artworks. However, with the advent of more modern materials, it gradually disappeared from common practice. Fragile and susceptible to moisture, it no longer meets current standards of durability, which explains its rarity today. It is now used only in very specific contexts, primarily related to heritage restoration or traditional craftwork.

Schedule

Day 1

Morning

• Introduction to paper mache

Afternoon

• Exploring the different ingredients and their properties
• Preparing the paper pulp paste

Day 2

Morning

• Continuing preparation of the paper pulp paste

Afternoon

• Preparing the molds

Day 3

Morning

• Preparing the glue

Afternoon

• Continuing preparation of the molds

Day 4

Morning

• Creating the objects

Afternoon

• Creating the objects and ongoing work

Day 5

Morning

• Removing the objects from the molds (if dry)

Afternoon

• Finishing touches
• Debriefing
• Cleaning up the workshop

Mayeul Gauvin

Mayeul Gauvin is a painter and material artist who creates bespoke decorative works, characterized by a deep respect for craftsmanship and storytelling. After studying art history and literature, she turned to decorative painting, where she developed a unique approach that blends traditional techniques with contemporary research. Her practice revolves around materials, textures, and surface effects, including the development of her own recipe for papier-mâché. Inspired by natural textures, textile patterns, and art history, she approaches each project as an in-situ narrative, conceived in dialogue with the space. Her work, both visually rich and sensory, reflects a commitment to minimizing the environmental impact of artistic creation.

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Hands-on workshop activities
• Active participation and experimentation by participants are encouraged

• Group and individual progress monitoring, with regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills acquired
• Group feedback session
• Attendance sheet for each half-day session
• Certificate of completion issued by Campus MaNa