A new research project, funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, is to explore the potential of laser cutting technology. 
Tom Sowden of the Centre for Fine Print Research (CFPR) at the University of the West of England is the recipient of the £30,000 grant. His project will investigate how laser cutting technology can be used to develop new artists' books and paper-based creative practice for arts, crafts and design.
The laser cutters allow intricate and accurate patterns to be cut or engraved into a variety of materials including paper, card, wood, textiles and acrylic. They are ideal for artists' books, pop-up books, paper engineering, textile design, jewellery design, stencil making and 3D modelling.
Tom explains, “The pilot project will explore and demonstrate the potential for the laser cutter to be used as a creative tool in terms of design, structure and construction for the production of artists' books and paper-based works.
“I will look at the cutting methods currently used by artists and review how the laser is used for creative projects. I plan to create new methods for the use of the cutter for paper and card based work.
“The research will include case studies of artists who will utilise laser cutting in the production of their artists' books. The case studies will document and demonstrate how an artist can use the laser cutter as an alternative to hand cutting and scoring. I'm hoping that this will result in a useful reference tool for artists and craftspeople new to laser cutting.”
More information on the project can be found on the UWE website.
-ENDS-
Editors notes:
AHRC Media contact: Emi Spinner, 0117 9876 770
Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC): Each year the AHRC provides approximately £102 million from the Government to support research and postgraduate study in the arts and humanities, from languages and law, archaeology and English literature to design and creative and performing arts. In any one year, the AHRC makes approximately 700 research awards and around 1,350 postgraduate awards. Awards are made after a rigorous peer review process, to ensure that only applications of the highest quality are funded. The quality and range of research supported by this investment of public funds not only provides social and cultural benefits but also contributes to the economic success of the UK.
Tom Sowden is an early career researcher, based at UWE's Centre for fine Print Research, who is a well known artist and curator of artists' books and has an impressive list of publications and exhibitions to his credit.
For more information about Tom's work please see his webpage.