Denton Shields (MFA Candidate, Class of 2027) is a papermaker and printmaker born and raised in the Tampa Bay area. His work questions individuals’ experiences with curated and natural environments, and how the tension between them propagates confused natural identities within local boundaries. This investigation takes shape through the handmade paper Denton creates from plant fibers and recycled materials.
Through this process, Denton strives to understand how the pseudo-scientific signature of his research—through interactions with place, sourcing and extraction of flora, and discoveries surrounding the maceration and sheetforming of fibers—becomes embedded in the paper he makes. He works to express a story of transformation that urges individuals to think more deeply about their position in the history and future of their surroundings.
“Coming to FSU has expanded my artistic community in such a fulfilling way. From faculty and staff to other MFAs and undergrads, I have met such amazing people that all wish to support each other.”
