Husband and wife team Patty and Allen Eckman share a passion for art and design. Since 1988, the duo have perfected the process of cast paper sculpture, in which they create intricate three-dimensional casts. Based in South Dakota, Patty and Allen say they find inspiration for their art in the landscape, the wildlife, and the history of their surroundings. In particular, many of their sculptures feature Native American culture, an interest that stems from Allen’s Cherokee ancestry.
To create each piece, the two artists go through a meticulous process, starting first by mixing acid-free paper pulp and then casting it into originally designed silicone rubber molds. Each piece is then pressed under a vacuum pressure to extract most of the water, and is left within the mold to fully dry. Once the piece is set, Patty and Allen complete any additional chasing, cast alterations, and detailing. The results are a transformation of paper pulp into masterfully elaborate people, animals, and large landscapes with polished surfaces and frayed edges.
