About Us
In the realm of artistic exploration, the Paper Lab Berlin - curated by Guy Lougashi stands as an embodiment of innovation and discovery. Rooted in the profound understanding of paper's nature and characteristics, the lab transcends conventional boundaries to redefine paper not merely as a material, but as a versatile medium that mirrors life itself.
Paper, in Lougashi's perspective, transcends its physical form to become a canvas for creativity, capable of embodying a multitude of concepts and ideas. It is not confined by its origins, but rather represents a convergence of natural, recycled, and contemporary elements. As a medium, paper serves as a reflection of the world around us, embodying diverse aspects of life and culture.
At the heart of the Paper Lab is a deep reverence for the inherent self-sufficiency of paper. It is a medium that reveals its origins and the forces that shape it, offering a glimpse into the hands and minds that stand behind each creation. Through the lens of paper, participants are invited to explore the interconnectedness of materials, concepts, and experiences.
Paper is vast—it holds cultural, personal, and consuming habits, and carries a wealth of information that can be linked to the person who chooses to engage with it. In this way, paper becomes not just a medium for artistic expression, but a vessel for storytelling and self-discovery.
In this creative sanctuary, the focus extends beyond technical skills and artistic techniques. Instead, participants are encouraged to engage in a dialogue with paper itself—to understand its essence, its possibilities, and its inherent beauty. Through observation and experimentation, they uncover the unique characteristics of paper and its capacity to convey meaning and emotion.
Your work, deeply experimental in nature, pushes the boundaries of traditional paper art. This curiosity and willingness to explore and push boundaries are what set you apart. The Paper Lab serves as a physical manifestation of this exploratory spirit, providing a space where the boundaries of paper as a medium are tested and expanded.
Central to Lougashi's philosophy is the concept of "self topography on paper"—an invitation for participants to unearth their unique artistic identities and voices through dialogue and experimentation. This notion permeates every aspect of the Paper Lab, guiding participants on a journey of self-discovery and creative exploration.
Guy Lougashi's experiences as a well-traveled individual deeply influence the nature of the Paper Lab. While Berlin serves as its hub, his explorations have taken him far and wide, enriching his perspective through observation and immersion in diverse cultures. This ethos extends to the Paper Lab itself, which not only gathers participants from around the globe for online activities but also takes its workshops and activities on the road.
With each journey, the Paper Lab becomes a traveling beacon of creativity, bringing its unique approach to paper manipulation to new audiences worldwide. Whether in bustling metropolises or remote villages, the essence of the Paper Lab remains unchanged—a commitment to exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery through the medium of paper.
At the culmination of each journey, the Paper Lab curates a showcase event under the title of "Self Topography on Paper." These exhibitions serve as a platform for both local artists and participants of the workshops to showcase their creations. By featuring works that reflect the concept of self topography on paper, these events celebrate the interconnectedness of artistic expression and personal exploration, bridging cultures and experiences through the universal language of paper.
Self topography on paper
Embarking on the exploration of self-topography on paper unveils a captivating odyssey through personal narratives, inner landscapes, and artistic expression. This concept unveils a profound connection between the medium of paper and the intricate tapestries of individual experiences, emotions, and cultural identity.
At its essence, self-topography on paper invites individuals to delve into the intricate terrain of their uniqueness. It recognizes that each person's creative expression is sculpted by their DNA, history, environment, cultural backgrounds, and innermost thoughts. Just as landscapes are shaped by geological forces and human activity, so too are our artistic visions molded by the contours of our lives.
Through the lens of self-topography on paper, artists tap into the rich tapestry of their personal narratives, drawing inspiration from the structures, textures, and shapes of their surroundings and the space around it.
Yet, self-topography on paper transcends mere external influences—it delves into the innermost recesses of our foundations. It is an exploration of the emotions, memories, and dreams that define who we are. By channeling these inner landscapes onto the blank canvas of paper, artists create works that resonate with authenticity and depth. Paper, known for its transformative qualities, becomes a medium for capturing even the most ephemeral notions of the self.
In this regard, self-topography on paper becomes a journey of self-discovery—a process of peeling back the layers of our identity, revealing the intricate patterns and contours that make us unique. It allows for the uncovering of hidden truths, the confrontation of fears, and the expression of aspirations.
Above all, self-topography on paper is a celebration of individuality and authenticity. It is a testament to the fact that each person's creative journey is distinct, shaped by their own experiences and perspectives. In a world that often seeks to homogenize and categorize, self-topography on paper serves as a poignant reminder that our differences are what make us truly interesting.
"Paper Goes Beyond the Physical: Unpacking Its Significance as a Medium and a Concept in Human History and Culture”
Self topography on paper
As an artist, I have always been fascinated by the idea that our personal history and experiences can serve as a source of inspiration for our creative work.
This curiosity led me to explore the theory of self-topography, which suggests that an artist's unique personal landscape, including their physical environment, emotional experiences, and cultural background, can serve as a map or blueprint for their artistic expression.
Through my research, I have discovered that self-topography is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses a wide range of factors.
These can include everything from our family history and upbringing to our relationships, life experiences, and cultural influences.
By examining and exploring these various elements, an artist can gain a deeper understanding of their own unique perspective and creative potential.
One of the key insights that self-topography offers is the importance of our physical environment in shaping our creative output. Whether we work in a cluttered studio, a minimalist space, or a chaotic environment, our surroundings can have a profound impact on our mood, energy levels, and artistic vision.
By paying attention to the ways in which our environment influences our creative process, we can learn to harness its power and channel it into our work.
Another important aspect of self-topography is the role of emotional experiences in shaping our artistic expression. Whether we draw inspiration from our own emotional landscapes or those of others, our emotions can be a powerful tool for creating art that is both meaningful and impactful. By exploring our own emotional landscape and using it to fuel our creative work, we can tap into a rich source of inspiration and create work that resonates deeply with others.
Finally, self-topography emphasizes the importance of cultural background and identity in shaping our artistic expression. Whether we draw on our own cultural heritage or explore the cultural landscapes of others, our cultural identity can be a powerful source of inspiration for our work.
By embracing our own cultural background and incorporating it into our creative process, we can create art that is both unique and deeply rooted in our own personal / subjective history and experience.
Overall, my experience as an artist has taught me that self-topography is a rich and complex concept that can be applied in a wide range of creative contexts. By exploring the various elements that make up our own personal landscape, we can tap into a rich source of inspiration and create work that is both unique and deeply meaningful.
Whether we are exploring our physical environment, emotional experiences, or cultural heritage, self-topography offers a powerful framework for understanding and harnessing the creative potential within each of us.