Paper Stories

Student Examples

P a p e r S t o r i e s

"How does art reflect culture and how are we as artists inspired by past traditions?"

Using the traditional Chinese paper cuts as inspiration we will be composing our own response using this technique. After looking at the art of Chinese paper cutting and describing what you have learned, you will also look at the work of modern paper cut artists, Joe Boruchow, Beatrice Coron and Peter Calleson.

In class, we will practice cutting with an xacto knife, while reviewing a Notan design method. Remember, Notan in Japanese refers to Light and Dark; the process helps us understand the importance of balance in our compositions.

You will next be asked to create your own paper story.

 The theme of your paper cut will have to do with object/s or symbols that inspire you in your life.

In other words you are asked to visually relate what is important to you. Think of the kind of object you would grab if your house were on fire! It could be your dog, an old toy, a plant, an insect, a myth etc. It is for you to decide.

Steps:

http://www.chinaartworld.com.cn/chinese_history.html

1. Using a blog post on the Ning, refer to the web site above to respond to traditional Chinese paper cuts and write a short description about what you learned. In addition, look at the work of one of the contemporary paper cut artists: Joe Boruchow, Beatrice Coron, or Peter Calleson. Find a piece of work from one of the artist and record what you like.

2. Sketch a few different ideas on paper.

3. Create your own paper story, by drawing your idea on black paper, then carefully cut it out.

4. Pay close attention to the positive and negative space.

5. Quality craftsmanship counts.

Paper cuts as contemporary inspirations:

The Sanlitun Village in Beijing and San Francisco Airport installation done by Garza

People who cut paper as an expressive media:

Kara Walker : http://www.sfmoma.org/multimedia/interactive_features/70

Hans Christian Andersen created paper stories too