I was raised in a small Northern Ontario town where almost everyone was employed by either Denison or Rio Algom Uranium mines. So mining has been a big part of my life. I even worked 10 years myself in the offices at the mine sites. Now I live in a Northern Ontario city where again mining is the main industry, mainly copper mining such as Vale Inco.
I came across this image below. I have no idea who the men are in the photograph or which mine it was taken at. As I looked at the photo I noticed the depth to it and thought it would make a really great 3 dimensional paper mache project. I had been experimenting with a paper mache pulp using my recipe for paste and mixing it with toilet paper. In this sculpture I also used some plaster of paris and drywall compound. It was a great way to experiment.
I got out a board and began my project making many mistakes along the way and learning a lot about the layering of papier mache. I have a little ways to go before the project is totally complete but here it is. Keep in mind that there is still work to be done on it.
When I have completed it I am thinking of donating it to one of the mines. I know Rio Algom has a mining hall of fame and Vale Inco is still in operations so maybe one of those two would like to receive it. For now I had better go dig my hands into my paper mache paste and get cracking!
