From Earth: Modern Art From Traditional Hispanic Papermaking Roots

I recently checked out an inspiring, colorful installation at the Latino Art Museum in the Pomona Arts Colony - a thriving art community east of Los Angeles. The artist, Elena Osterwalder creates a color-drenched atmosphere with her rich, handmade cotton papers dyed with organic colors.

At first the concept seems simple enough, but I learned that this paper-making tradition has deep historical and traditional relevance. The Amate paper, which is what Osterwalder recreates, is centuries old to the native Otomi people of Mexico and was believed to have spiritual and healing properties that transcended its biological nature.

Some of the natural dyes used in the installation include indigo, turmeric, campeche wood (which gives of black or navy blue colors) and cochineal - a parisitic insect that grows on cactus which gives a wide range of colors - including bright reds and purples - when dried and ground with other materials.

If there's a color you really like, you can even buy the paper for $5 a piece.