Pam Puck’s paper mache sculptures are funny and vulnerable in equal measure

The Italian-American artist Pam Puck has forged a special space for themselves – a place where mystical charm and oddities intermingle. A self-taught sculptor (originally starting with ceramics before moving towards paper mache) Pam wields their fingers to explore how materials and mythology mix in vulnerable, funny, unusual and erotic adventures.  

“My self-portraits usually explore issues related to my mental health or sexuality,” Pam tells us, “and I often create comical scenes to combat pessimism with humour.” In their work, you’ll find scenes of monsters, demons, aliens, imps, and imagery of ancient and medieval art. “I like to think my work is deceptive in its playfulness,” they continue, whereby colour, vibrant scenes of figures and fables disguise darker messaging. “Once the piece is close enough and their defences are down, you notice that there are themes within the piece to consider.” Often, Pam forges unsettling tableaus inspired by vivid discomfort. “I suffer from migraines,” they say, “and sometimes images, scenes, or characters come to me when my brain feels like it’s melting.”

Whilst there is a grounded sense of reality to Pam’s pieces, they are equally created with a sunny wonder that’s hard to shake. “Art is magic,” Pam Puck says. “I am not religious, but I’m aware that there is another world alongside the ‘real’ one, and it’s mysterious and elusive and powerful.” Pam concludes: “I think I reveal a lot about myself through my work because the subjects are so unconsidered in a way. Pushed by what, I’m not sure – but I’m certain I’m not always in control.”

Pam’s first solo show is on now at Nucleus House in Portland, Oregon.