Paper on Skin™
began as an initiative of the Burnie Arts Council.
Baldwin, Sally (UK) Major Award Winner, Paper on Skin 2024. After the Bushfires - Regeneration. Grant Wells Photo
The first gala event occurred in 2012 at the Burnie Regional Art Gallery. The concept of a wearable paper art competition was originated by Pam Thorne who was, at the time, secretary of the organisation.
Since that time, the event has grown to become a truly international event, celebrating the ingenuity and wonder of wearable paper art.
Designers from around the world embrace the challenge of creating catwalk-ready garments made from at least 80% paper.
Kato, Kaori (JPN) Bilateral Relations Major Award Winner, 2022.
Tara Palmer Photography
In 2022, in order to facilitate its continued expansion, Paper on Skin became a separate business entity to the Burnie Arts Council.
The two organisations are still closely linked, however. Pam is still involved with both groups. Her daughter, Lyndal, is a director of Paper on Skin™ and the current president of the stARTs North-West.
Paper on Skin has relocated to Devonport and expanded its program to include exhibitions, workshops, public engagement activities and film.
The Paper on Skin™ gala and awards evening is one of Australia’s premier wearable art events. Exquisite paper garments are presented in a theatrical performance, complete with an original soundtrack.
This is followed by a six-week exhibition at the Devonport Regional Gallery.
Baldwin, Sally (UK), 'After the Bushfires - Regeneration'. Major Award Winner, Paper on Skin 2024. Grant Wells Photo
Lee, Amanda May (AUS) 'Waratah'. Winner of the Design Eye Creative Major Award, 2020. Grant Wells Photo
Svenja (AUS), 'Lichen Morphology', Winner of the Betta Milk Major Award, 2018. Grant Wells Photo
Clark, Anzara (AUS), 'There are other ways of knowing'. Winner of the Betta Milk Major Award 2014. Photo - Heath Holden
McManus, Douglas (AUS), 'synthetique of bone and matter, blossfeldt and McQueen'. Winner of the Betta Milk Open Award, 2012. Photo - Garry Conroy-Cooper
Powell, Liz; Rall, Denise N; and Wilkinson, Kath (AUS), 'Tahuna-Ocean Navigator'. Winner of the Betta Milk Major Award, 2016. Grant Wells Photo
Paper on Skin™ Major Partner – Devonport City Council. Paper on Skin™ is also supported by the Tasmanian Government and North West Support Services.