The Department of Art at Appalachian State University brought together four visiting artists for Tangible Matters: Rock, Paper, Scissors, a two-and-a-half-day immersive event held February 25–27 in Wey Hall. Supported by the Windgate Foundation and drawing more than 85 students, the event centered on hands-on making in three material disciplines—fiber, paper, and metal—alongside artist talks, open critiques, and a panel discussion.
Visiting artists Lisa Klakulak, Nick Cladis, Andrew Meers, and Paul Moxon each brought distinct practices to the event. Klakulak led wet-felting workshops across both days, guiding students through 3D fiber forming and surface-designed fabric techniques. Cladis demonstrated nagashizuki (traditional Japanese-style hand papermaking using kozo fiber) and led pulp painting and pouring sessions that culminated in large-format handmade paper works. Meers worked with sculpture students in the metals studio, demonstrating forging, chasing, and repoussé, and held individual critiques with advanced students. Moxon conducted press maintenance workshops across all three days with a select group of faculty and students, and led an open letterpress workshop on Thursday.
The schedule balanced instruction with conversation. Morning artist talks on Wednesday gave students a window into each artist's career trajectory and practice before afternoons opened into participatory workshops open to drop-in observers. A panel discussion, moderated by Shauna Caldwell from the Turchin Center for the Visual Arts, rounded out the programming.
The Department of Art Plans to host Tangible Matters again in September 2026.
Art Tangible Matters event 2026
Art Tangible Matters event 2026