Transform Old Military Uniforms into Paper at Combat Paper Workshop

Gumberg Library, in conjunction with its Beyond All Repair exhibit, is hosting a Combat Paper Workshop during which participants learn how to make “combat paper” from old, shredded military uniforms.

The unique traveling community art project will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 2, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Gumberg Library patio (rain site: Union Ballroom). It is free and open to the public.

“This special project is conducted by Combat Paper NJ, which is rooted in connective practice, participatory aesthetics, public engagement and storytelling,” said Christie Kliewer, outreach and communications librarian. “Students, staff, faculty, veterans and non-veterans alike are welcome to attend this interactive and thought-provoking workshop. Participants can keep their combat paper and use it for something like creative writing or artwork.”

Combat Paper NJ uses the art of handmade papermaking to help veterans explore the various effects of war. Their public workshops, like the one at Duquesne, provide an opportunity for both veterans and non-veterans to come together and share stories.

In addition to the workshop, Gumberg is hosting a Combat Paper Lecture, featuring Kevin Basl of Combat Paper NJ, on Thursday, Nov. 3, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the Union’s Africa Room.

Basl, who is the program coordinator for Combat Paper NJ, spent five years in the Army, including two tours in Iraq. He earned a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing from Temple University, where he taught English for two years. Prior to his work with Combat Paper NJ, Basl facilitated workshops for Warrior Writers, a veteran-focused arts organization.

For more information on both combat paper events, contact Gumberg Library at 412.396.6130 or visit www.duq.edu/beyondallrepair.