I want to make some modular drawings —ones that I can assemble into larger pieces. This past week I spent some time thinking and testing how I would accomplish that goal.

The drawings that I have been experimenting with are on synthetic paper that is translucent. They are related to the sounding series. My marks test the boundaries of the sheet of paper and the number of marks that can be made using one fill of the pen or drawing implement.

I would like to make these drawing so they don't have to be framed. I want the substrate to be the defining boundary not the frame. To that end I am experimenting with another mark making tool that is important to me for many reasons not the least of which is the piercing and binding. The use of staples.

I want to stretch the substrate on a light framework. I have been toying many options including strips of wood. But warping could come into play. But if I attach something only to the top and bottom or two sides for that matter the issue may be mute. The best solution would be something that makes the work rigid or removable so the work can be stored flat.

I keep repeating to myself — just make the art.

But this construction, this presentation IS the art.

This is a test side by side only using foam board. Not sure this is the answer.

side by side

This is one of my numerous staplers. I have many and they can be put to work to do lots of interesting things. If I staple the edges I may have to staple within the piece too.

my stapler

A close up of what the staples do to the surface. They actually can buckle it more or less based on my technique.

light backing