Papercraft Research_ZJ

 

Paper cut light boxes by Deepti Nair and Harikrishnan Panicker

Those amazing paper cut light boxes are created by an artist couple, known collectively as Hari and Deepti. They use layers of cut watercolor paper placed inside a shadow box and lit from behind with LED light strips. Paper cut in different shapes and stick with each other to create a contrast, which has a mystical effect on the viewers when the light is lit behind.

            Hari and Deepti’s work of arts are full of stories and imagination because they have always been drawn towards the imaginative aspect of storytelling. They believe that “Paper is brutal in its simplicity as a medium. It demands the attention of the artist while it provides the softness they need to mold it in to something beautiful. It is playful, light, colorless and colorful. It is minimal and intricate. It reflects light, creates depth and illusions in a way that it takes the artist through a journey with limitless possibilities.”

            When I look at those light and shadow fairy tales inside of the paper cut light boxes, I really admire Hari and Deepti’s idea of using paper to create depth and making a fantasy three dimensional world. They use the light transmittance of different paper and a range of sculptural soft lights to create mood and interesting shadows, such as moon light, campfire light, or the moon that reflects on the river. Sometimes I can see they add some fireflies, stars, or fire in their art works, these not only enhance the feeling of jumping into a wonderland, but also show me how amazing paper and light can do if we combine them together.

            In short, the creator of the paper cut light box inspired me to discover the potential and make change to those common and normal things.