Anita Russel & Driftwood Dreams

Papier Mache

With over 25 years of experience, I am a well-established papier mâché artist known for creating unique, personalized sculpture commissions. My work often captures the essence of cherished memories—whether it’s a honeymoon, a holiday, or an once-in-a-lifetime adventure—preserved in three-dimensional form to be treasured forever.
Beyond private commissions, my work has featured in television and theatre. Notably, I created a likeness of Alastair Darling for Channel 4’s coverage of the UK budget, as well as various theatrical props. I welcome commissions that bring to life the images you can’t find anywhere else—bespoke, imaginative, and entirely hand-crafted.
In addition to creating new works, I’ve also been trusted with restoring papier mâché items, including high-profile pieces such as a large inflatable sculpture of Donald Trump. Each project, whether new or restorative, is approached with the same passion and attention to detail that has defined my career.

Driftwood Dreams: A Journey in Papier Mâché

Driftwood Dreams was founded in 2002, born from a love of storytelling through sculpture. My journey into the world of papier mâché began with three years of intensive training in traditional Mexican papier mâché techniques. This experience gave me a deep understanding of Mexican folklore, particularly the vibrant traditions surrounding Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) parades and shrines, which continue to influence my work to this day.
My first major creation, Antigua, was selected for exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum as part of its prestigious Inspired By competition, where it earned a finalist’s place. In 2004, I was honoured to have a second sculpture, Bird of Paradise, displayed at the V&A. Reflecting on that period, I’ve often said:
“The sculpture course gave me the vision and expertise to let my imagination run riot and create fantasies in sculptural form.”
This formative experience gave me both the confidence and the platform to develop my artistic voice. It also connected me to a global community of papier mâché artists, expanding my practice and perspectives.
Since then, I’ve completed over 300 papier mâché commissions—each one a unique exploration of memory, symbolism, and imagination. Today, I continue to collaborate with collectors, theatre and TV productions, and fellow artists from around the world, sharing the enduring magic of papier mâché.

The Coastal Inspiration behind Driftwood Dreams

Having spent every summer of my childhood by the sea—and now living there year-round—the coast has always been my sanctuary. I still find joy in simple pleasures: collecting shells, gathering driftwood, sailing, rowing, and biking along the shoreline. In this place, I feel most at peace, most inspired, and most myself.
Living in this coastal haven, it was only natural that it would seep into my creative practice. The sea, with all its natural beauty, is a constant source of inspiration—whether through the rhythmic ebb of the tide or the hidden treasures it leaves behind. Over time, I began to incorporate elements of this environment into my work, and driftwood became my signature. Coastal themes, boating imagery, and the serene flow of the ocean find their way into much of my sculpture, creating a dialogue between nature, memory, and art.