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Gangolf Ulbricht: The Hand Papermaker Beloved by Artists

artist · 2026-05-05

Gangolf Ulbricht, one of Europe’s last traditional hand papermakers, runs a workshop in Berlin’s Kreuzberg district. Rejecting tree-based cellulose, he creates unique handmade papers for a diverse clientele including artists, architects, and restorers. Renowned figures such as Jenny Holzer, Louise Bourgeois, and Damien Hirst have sought his expertise. Ulbricht emphasizes the individual character of paper, highlighting its texture, color, and tactile qualities. He anticipates a growing fascination with sensory-stimulating paper that resonates emotionally, as more creators seek to deepen their connection with this unique medium.

Key facts

  • Gangolf Ulbricht is a hand papermaker based in Berlin.
  • He works in the Kreuzberg district.
  • His paper is made entirely by hand without tree-derived cellulose.
  • Clients include artists, architects, restorers, printers, bookbinders, photographers, and designers.
  • Famous artist clients: Jenny Holzer, Louise Bourgeois, Guenther Uecker, Jonathan Meese, Damien Hirst, Christiane Baumgartner, Matthias Weischer.
  • Ulbricht emphasizes paper's character: surface, texture, tone, rigidity, color, reflection, crackle.
  • He predicts a resurgence of tactile, sensual, emotional paper.
  • The article is from Artribune, 2018.

Entities

Artists

  • Gangolf Ulbricht
  • Jenny Holzer
  • Louise Bourgeois
  • Guenther Uecker
  • Jonathan Meese
  • Damien Hirst
  • Christiane Baumgartner
  • Matthias Weischer

Institutions

  • Artribune

Locations

  • Berlin
  • Kreuzberg
  • Germany

Sources