I live extremely locally to the New Forest, I wanted to use as locally sourced or natural materials as I could to experiment with (where I can) in order to make paper. I have previously used Lichen in paper and the results were extremely successful. This material interested me for its geographical locality as well as its natural and interesting appearance. These are also indicators of pollutants and grows extremely successfully within the forest because of its low pollutant levels. The lichen grows on the trees making them look hairy in some cases. I only picked licken off the floor or dead wood that had fallen of the trees. I brought them home dried them out and separated them. Moving Forward, I will combine these with my paper making.
- Idea: This has made me consider how and if it is possible to keep these living or have plants that grow within the paper, I am not yet sure of this idea due to the fragility, but this could be something I could explore and whether it is possible to then manipulate the paper?
Lara Hoad Artist Designer: Maker 