Calvin Nicholls
Canada
Inspired by the role art plays in communication, I began my
art adventure by enrolling in the Graphic Design program
at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario. Assignments in a
class called Materials and Structures provided an introduction
to the idea of paper as a medium.
Five years later in 1983 as a freelance graphic designer,
I included paper sculpture imagery in one of my design
projects and I was instantly hooked. Enthused by the effects
achieved through simple scoring and folding I expanded my
search for specialized knives and embossing tools.
Consultation with paper mills, while researching paper
for my design projects, had provided a valuable understanding
of the various types and weights of fine papers.
A select line of archival papers of varying weights proved to
be perfect for fine detail and structural components.
The introduction of paper sculpture to my design clients
provided a fresh look for their marketing campaigns and a
distinct look and personality to my port folio.
Combining my childhood interests in model making,
sculpture, drawing and photography was exciting but in
1986 I created my first bird and everything changed. I
realized that the layering of feathers was the perfect
application of this amazing art form. Images from my
youth of wild fowl on the wing, hawks soaring over head
and songbirds punctuating the rural landscape rushed
through my mind and I recognized the opportunity that lay
in front of me.
In 1989 I released my first series of wildlife prints and
two short years later I completed the first of seventy five
sculptures for Follett Library Resources near Chicago that
would establish my career as a wildlife paper sculptor.
Collaborating with corporate clients, private collectors
and renowned biologists continues to inspire me in this
wonderful art adventure from my home based studio in
Lindsay, Ontario.
* This statement has been provided directly by the artist in association to their 16th International ARC Salon entries. This content has not been edited for typos or grammatical errors and has not been vetted for accuracy.
