Paper on Skin is an international wearable paper art competition based on the North-West Coast of Tasmania, Australia. The event invites artists to design a wearable garment made from at least 80% paper. 2024 is the 7th iteration of the biennial event. 33 finalists have been selected, representing 11 countries. There are ten awards totalling more than AUD$14 000 in prize money. Three new awards introduced in 2024 include the Paper as Textile Award (sponsored by Anzara Clark); the Designer Dreaming Award (sponsored by Stephanie Reynolds), and the Professional Development Award.
Alongside the competition and gala event, this year a sister project was added called the Universe of Paper. This project involved making a huge, fantastical paper forest in the Market Square Pavilion in Devonport. Approximately 180 square metres of fabulous foliage was created during workshops held across the north of the state over a period of months leading up to the launch. Around 400 people contributed. The paper forest provided a magical setting for Paper on Skin's pre-show soirée, and was open for public exhibition for a three week period.
USA based Helen Hiebert came to Tasmania for the festival, leading three days of booked-out workshops. Helen also judged the Awagami Factory Handmade Paper Award.
Paper on Skin™ draws on the industrial papermaking heritage of the region. It has now evolved to become an event showcasing world-class talent, fostering community engagement, and promoting skills development in papermaking and paper art.
Paper on Skin™ Major Partner - Devonport City Council. Paper on Skin is supported by the North West Support Services and the Tasmanian Government. The Universe of Paper project is made possible by the Australian government's Regional Arts Fund, which supports the arts in regional and remote Australia.
Paper on Skin™ website.