Kae Carlstedt-Duke

My practice centres on handmade papermaking, drawing on Japanese and Korean papermaking traditions, particularly the use of kozo fibres. With a background in bookbinding, I have long been fascinated by paper not only as a surface for content, but as a material with its own history, structure, and expressive potential. This curiosity has led me to experiment extensively with different paper fibres, exploring how their unique qualities are reflected through strength, texture, and translucency.

I am currently investigating the properties of Japanese fibres and how their inherent strength and lightness can be combined with seaweed pulp from the Island beaches to create three-dimensional forms.

Alongside my studio work, teaching is an important part of my practice. I enjoy sharing papermaking skills with others, particularly in relation to sustainability, material awareness, and the value of slow, hands-on making. Through both making and teaching, I aim to honour papermaking heritage while contributing to an evolving dialogue around material innovation and ecological responsibility.