There are 100’s of different kinds of rice papers. All with different personalities, stiffness, and textures. But there was a unique allure of Dragon Cloud rice paper, a remarkable handmade product directly from Japan. Crafted from a special blend of kozo and mulberry, this distinctive paper stands out not only for its exceptional qualities but also for its rarity, as it may be the only one of its kind available in Costa Rica.
Over the years, I have honed my skills in working with Dragon Cloud, mastering the nuances of its texture and stiffness. Understanding how it interacts with moisture and absorbs paint has allowed me to create stunning works of art that truly reflect the paper's unique personality.
The art of wet mounting “Urauchi” is a delicate and crucial second step in my creative process. This technique involves applying a specially formulated paste to the painting while laying it on a flat surface, such as glass. The moisture from the paste allows the painting to stretch, creating a smooth and even surface.
While the process requires a gentle touch and steady hands—since any mistake has the potential to tear the artwork—trusting in the technique brings stunning results. Once fully dried, the painting is carefully peeled from the surface, revealing a beautifully mounted piece ready for framing. Each step in this process enhances the character of the artwork, transforming it into a true masterpiece.
