Archives for March 2016

Papermaking Expertise Needed for a Program in Haiti

Haiti Partners is a non-profit with the goal of “helping Haitians change Haiti through education.” We develop schools that help children realize their potential while driving community development and lifelong learning. We currently run one school of our own and we partner with six more. We’ve been building our curriculum at the school and adding adult programs in entrepreneurship at the same time. We’ve been investigating possible social businesses that can put our families to work in this poor area, and can support the school financially. And lately we’ve been generating a lot of excitement around the potential of making handmade paper and associated products. Many among our supporters and networks in the US have expressed interest in helping us sell products.

A few months ago we tested some very low-tech papermaking methods, and discussed the venture with several Haitian retailers and wholesalers of craft goods engaged in business development. Although currently no one is creating paper/cards/ bags to sell locally, these products were available in the past and individuals have received our ideas positively.

We created a job description for someone to help us develop an artisan papermaking social business at Children’s Academy in Haiti. We are willing to help with room and board and a stipend. We already have a man and woman team of trusted Haitian colleagues, both in their 20’s, ready to receive training and help get things set up. Read more details at https://haitipartners.org/childrens-academy/artisan-paper-social-business-in-haiti-seeks-entrepreneurial-paper-making-partner/ We have a great facility in the mountains 20 minutes south of Port au Prince, complete with diesel powered electricity. We also collect rain water into a 50,000 gallon reservoir.

We’re really excited about papermaking, and putting the service hours of our parents to productive use in creating a product that has a simple elegance and a potent message. Please spread the word about this opportunity.

Appreciatively,
Jodie Kitchens
(804) 572 3974
jodie@haitipartners.org

PORTFOLIO ARTISTS ANNOUNCED

Thirty intergenerational artists have been selected to participate in Hand Papermaking’s 12th limited-edition portfolio, partnering as equals to explore the interdependence and reciprocity of a constructive relationship between generations.

The fifteen collaborative teams are Tom Balbo & May Babcock, Velma Bolyard & Genevieve Lapp, Melissa Jay Craig & Katharine Delamater, Michael Durgin & Yang Changhe, Sue Gosin & Lara Henderson, Joan Hall & Sarah Rose Lejeune, Mary Hark & Ibrahim Mahama, Tana Kellner & Emily Chaplain, Tom Leech & Lindsey Fromm, Julie McLaughlin & Johan Solberg, Catherine Nash & Radha Pandey, Peter Sowiski & Flora Shum, Peter Thomas & Jillian Bruschera, Bernie Vinzani & Emma Sovich, Gibby Waitzkin & Jennaway Pearson.

This latest addition to Hand Papermaking’s series of distinctive portfolios is being compiled and overseen by guest curator Tatiana Ginsberg. Steve Miller is the designer. Mina Takahashi is the editor.