Propeller Member Since 2020
Most of my work uses Japanese washi with a focus on handmade heritage papers. My work begins with explorations of the particular qualities of the paper. I am fascinated by the strength and translucency, and the fibres that give washi its qualities. I investigate and experiment to understand how different interventions will alter the paper, always seeking to resect and highlight the particular characteristics. This often includes tearing and layering. The resulting piece often appears to have had minimal interventions.
Susan Ruptash works in a variety of paper arts including explorations of handmade paper, printmaking and bookmaking, building on a lifelong fascination with the properties and possibilities of paper. Susan’s career as an architect has informed her explorations of structure, form, materiality and process. Susan is a member of Open Studio, focussing on intaglio printmaking, as well as a member of the Canadian Bookbinders and Book Artists Guild. Susan’s work often includes embedded efforts that may not be readily apparent on viewing, but contribute to the finished piece through a curiosity and respect for the materials. For this reason, many of her works appear minimalist at first glance.
