Experiments in papercutting – II

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I’m working on an idea for a new book with paper-cut illustrations. Even though my concept is for a digital book, I like the idea of using paper-cut pictures because it gives it a more 3D feel than the flatness you sometimes get with digital art. Doing it this way, I also have the freedom to move the pieces around, like a puppeteer. It’s a little time-consuming, but entertaining process.

Looks like somebody’s angry, huh? I was a little scared myself, when I finished. Poor kid!

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What do you think? Let’s see what comes out of it.  Stay tuned for more!

P.S If you’re curious about how the first papercutting experiment went, go here.

 

6 Comments

  1. Raji

    That’s too good :-) I especially like the expression on the boy’s face

    • Gayathri

      Thanks, Raji! :)

  2. Mark MacKay

    I like the paper cutting.The images are very strong, expressive and engaging. The size difference between the two characters has an interesting narrative feel.

    There is some interesting shadow play going on between the cut paper and the background paper. Also, there are some highlights – from the flash – on the edge of the cut paper that may have been an accident but create a cool effect. Something to play with?

    It would be interesting to see a scene that combined cut out images – like the two faces – with images created by the removal of paper (the negative space).

    You’re making me want to start drawing again! – MM

    • Gayathri

      Thanks so much Mark! Lovely seeing you stop by here & always happy to hear your constructive feedback :)

      I agree about the size difference — also thought it lent an interesting feel. It was completely accidental how I came around to it, but do think it works. Same with the shadow play. Yet another happy coincidence from not pasting the paper down, but just placing it on the background cardboard. Did you mean the bit of white you see as the highlight? Might just be the paper, because it was black on one side and white on the other.

      What did you mean by combining the cut out images with those created by removing the negative space? Did you mean replacing the brown cardboard behind? I’m curious and intrigued! :) Do tell!

      And as for the last point — yaay! Do it :)

  3. Angie

    It looks like you’ve been busy experimenting with all types of illustration and different types of picture books. I’m curious, this is “Experiments in papercutting-II.” It would be helpful if there were a link to the “Experiments in papercutting-I.”

    • Gayathri

      Hey Angie! Yeah, been busy doing, reading, writing, etc :) Great point; rookie mistake 😉 Have updated the post with a link to the first one :) Thanks for pointing that out!

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