Using papier-mâché, participants will learn to design and make a realistic three dimensional sculpture (or prop) for any theme or topic. The design process begins with drawing all sides of the subject. Discussion of scale, shape, engineering and colour will follow as well as step by step demos of the process from creating a structure with cardboard to adding detail features such as whiskers and hinges. Options for decorating will be demonstrated, for example: types of paint and colour mixing, the use of brushes, fabric and decorative paper as well as other embellishments and features such as fur scraps, beads, wool, tooth picks, etc.
| Grade Suitability | Gr 4-10 |
| Maximum Class Size | 22 |
| Time Required | 4-6 hours instruction with at least one dry time between sessions, 2 hours prep |
| Material Required | Cardboard, newspaper, masking tape, paste, paint, other materials needed for final detail decoration |
| Material Cost | Acrylic paint and brushes; cost approximately $50 |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Communities | All |
| Special Notes | Can be delivered online or in person. A longer version of this workshop can be created. |
Helen O'Connor is an award winning Yukon visual artist who specializes in papermaking and paper arts. She exhibits her works in the Yukon, across Canada and Internationally. In 2025 Helen's paper art was featured at the International Paper Art Biennale in Shanghai. She is an experienced educator and possesses a Yukon Teacher's Certificate. In 2020 Helen completed a Master of Visual Art Education with a focus on inquiry and land-based education. She has taught in many Whitehorse and Yukon community schools.