From a UBA press release:
The City of Urbana invites the public to view From the Surface, the latest Artist of the Corridor exhibition featuring dimensional handmade paper works by Steve Kostell. In the works on display, Kostell uses paper to cast the surfaces of public spaces. Of this work he says, “By using pulp fibers as the primary medium, I am able to sample formal qualities, capturing freeze joints, textures and subtle imperfections that are universal to the built environment. Through the drying process of pulp to paper, these surface samples of common sidewalks, streets or parking lots are transformed to new topologies.” Using recycled cotton and plant fibers, latex paint, and discarded lumber forms, Kostell uses materials sourced from the consumer waste stream to create a sustainable studio practice.
From the Surface is free, open to the public, and will be on display in the City Building lobby at 400 S. Vine Street in Urbana through October 31, 2013. Steve Kostell is an intermedia artist and Lecturer at the University of Illinois School of Art + Design. He received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University. His artwork spans traditional and experimental techniques in print media, handmade paper, artist books, photography and video. Kostell is co-investigator at Fresh Press Agri-fiber Paper Laboratory, a research lab developing paper blends from agricultural and indigenous plant fiber. He also serves as co-investigator at Soybean Press, the letterpress imprint of the University.