Hello, I'm Rachael, a paper mache artist, sculptor and author living in the beautiful countryside of Gascony, in the south-west of France.

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I've been making paper mache sculptures for over 20 years, and I still love the process of turning everyday rubbish into something unexpected. Cardboard boxes, newspaper, plastic packaging, toilet roll tubes, old clothes, fabric and magazines can all find a new life in my work. I enjoy looking at things that might otherwise be thrown away and imagining what they could become.

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My work is colourful, playful and a little bit quirky. I'm particularly fond of making plump lady sculptures, inspired by the wonderful French artist Niki de Saint Phalle and her joyful, colourful Nanas. I love experimenting with shapes, patterns and colours to give each figure its own character and personality.

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For me, paper mache is about more than just making things. It's about being curious, using what you already have, and discovering that you don't need expensive materials to create something interesting and original. I love the freedom of working with discarded materials, and I'm always finding new ways to use them.

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I also enjoy sharing what I've learnt over the years, helping other people discover the pleasure of making their own sculptures. You don't need to be an experienced artist or have a special studio full of equipment to get started. A little imagination, some simple materials and a willingness to experiment are often all you need.

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I hope my work inspires you to look at everyday objects a little differently and perhaps have a go at making something yourself. You never know what you might create from a pile of things destined for the rubbish bin!