Victoria Stanway – Bucks Art Weeks

129 Victoria Stanway

Papier-mâché animal heads
Artists at Hogshaw Farm

My paper mache animal heads are made using the overlooked and the discarded and reimagining it as vibrant, spirited wildlife. Working from my studio, I create wall-mounted animal sculptures using a meticulous paper mache process. What begins as a collection of household waste, corrugated cardboard, egg cartons, newspaper, and bubble wrap—is layered and sculpted into lifelike forms that capture the unique character of each creature.

Sustainability is very important to my work. By using PVA and recycled paper pulp, I explore the tension between the fragility of the medium and the strength of the final form. Whether it is the inquisitive tilt of a fennec fox or the rugged texture of a beaver’s fur, each piece is hand-painted with acrylics to highlight anatomical detail and character. These sculptures serve as a tactile reminder of our connection to the natural world, proving that beauty can be found in the most humble, repurposed materials