Elisabetta Casaburi

Paper artist

©Susanna Pozzoli

For the love of handmade paper

Elisabetta makes paper objects that blend contemporary elements with tradition
She finds paper a fascinating material on a number of levels
She collaborates with Università Ca’ Foscari to promote work on paper and binding

After years of experience in the graphics industry, in 2008 Elisabetta Casaburi decided to open her own paper shop in Venice, complete with a retail outlet. In her previous career, she had honed her manual skills and knowledge of different paper and cardboard types. Drawing inspiration from the design world, Elisabetta produces everyday objects from handmade paper – folded, printed or bound. Notebooks, photo albums, folders, artist books and accessories combine craftsmanship with the city's history, making her workshop a place open to learning, joint ventures and the handing down of knowledge dating back to the 15th century. Elisabetta organises courses on bookbinding and origami techniques. She also hosts workshops and museum events, as well as other projects dedicated to the world of paper and printing.

Interview

©Susanna Pozzoli

©Susanna Pozzoli

How did your love of paper first come about?: From books, which have always been a big part of my life. I deconstruct books to understand how they are made. Paper is like life: it folds, it rolls, it becomes something else without holding anything back, sometimes it tells a story, other times it is enveloping, serving as a support and connecting element.
What is it like to have an atelier in Venice today?: Since the way of communicating has changed, and social media has become an extension of the workshop, having a space in Venice gives me the opportunity to continue a story which began virtually. It allows me to showcase my craft and offer an experience where ideas are exchanged and people are enriched.
What is it about your work that you love the most?: My craft arises from the need to express myself, giving shape to everyday, useful objects. It stems from resilient, timeless craftsmanship. I am interested in the meeting of materials, the intertwining of arts, the exchange of roles and knowledge, and the endless research it sparks.
What kind of relationship do you have with the city?: My work is a bridge between past and present. I am part of Venice’s cArte Museo Diffuso della Carta e della Stampa. I aim to narrate the relationship between paper and my city, and give back some of the hospitality, beauty and love it offers.

Elisabetta Casaburi is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2008