Intricate Paper Cuttings by Parth Kothekar
For a time, I was featuring papercut artists very frequently here on the blog, but stopped, not because I had lost admiration for the impressive works that some are able to achieve... instead, to bring back a sense of balance. When I saw the spectacular cuttings by Parth Kothekar in Ahmedabad, India, it was obvious the moment had arrived to once again showcase this artistic medium.
Parth's work has been featured on quite a few sites in the past, and I was curious to see his newest projects. First, a bit about his beginnings as a papercut artist, process and designs, each of which is one of a kind and completely cut by hand.
Parth got his start while experimenting with graffiti stencils. Paper cutting was a hobby until his close friends encouraged him to consider it a profession. He begins by creating a pencil sketch on a single sheet of matte white or black 120 - 130 gsm paper, and uses a surgical knife to make cuts directly on the surface. Finally, the paper is turned over to reveal the completed cutting. Parth is always curious to see the outcome and says that moment is what motivates him to finish.
Look at these miniscule cuts!
Are you enjoying being a full-time paper artist?
Yes, I am. It is difficult to sustain sometimes, but that is what challenges me to work more.
How do you manage eye/hand strain after many hours of such precise work?
Cutting is like meditation for me. I use enough lights and take a break whenever I think my eyes are taking too much effort. I will sleep 15-30 minutes and then start working again.
Have you always been an artist and if not, what was your previous career?
I was good in sketching during my school days. I would often draw and wanted to do something in a creative field so I chose animation after graduation. I was not a bookish guy while in school, but I did well in drawing, computer and English. :p
(Note: He doesn't need to kid about that last part... his English is easily understood.)
Which design is your newest?
I am pushing myself to do bigger papercuts these days - around 24 inches (61 cm) x 24 inches (61 cm) - and just completed this flower that was based on traditional Indian works.
Many of his designs have a delightful sense of movement... for example, swirling skirts.
Parth recommends framing a paper cutting between two pieces of clear glass without the use of glue for the best effect.
This is one of his miniature lettering papercuts, just 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) x 2 inches (5 cm). I was fascinated to see how Parth's practiced hand cuts cursive lettering via his series of paper cutting demos on YouTube - they are mesmerizing to watch.
In addition to papercuts, Parth creates sets of miniature steel containers that feature his original designs printed on glass lids.
Parth Kothekar has an Etsy shop and is on Instagram, Facebook, and Behance.
Parth's work has been featured on quite a few sites in the past, and I was curious to see his newest projects. First, a bit about his beginnings as a papercut artist, process and designs, each of which is one of a kind and completely cut by hand.
Parth got his start while experimenting with graffiti stencils. Paper cutting was a hobby until his close friends encouraged him to consider it a profession. He begins by creating a pencil sketch on a single sheet of matte white or black 120 - 130 gsm paper, and uses a surgical knife to make cuts directly on the surface. Finally, the paper is turned over to reveal the completed cutting. Parth is always curious to see the outcome and says that moment is what motivates him to finish.
Look at these miniscule cuts!
Are you enjoying being a full-time paper artist?
Yes, I am. It is difficult to sustain sometimes, but that is what challenges me to work more.
How do you manage eye/hand strain after many hours of such precise work?
Cutting is like meditation for me. I use enough lights and take a break whenever I think my eyes are taking too much effort. I will sleep 15-30 minutes and then start working again.
Have you always been an artist and if not, what was your previous career?
I was good in sketching during my school days. I would often draw and wanted to do something in a creative field so I chose animation after graduation. I was not a bookish guy while in school, but I did well in drawing, computer and English. :p
(Note: He doesn't need to kid about that last part... his English is easily understood.)
Which design is your newest?
I am pushing myself to do bigger papercuts these days - around 24 inches (61 cm) x 24 inches (61 cm) - and just completed this flower that was based on traditional Indian works.
Many of his designs have a delightful sense of movement... for example, swirling skirts.
Parth recommends framing a paper cutting between two pieces of clear glass without the use of glue for the best effect.
This is one of his miniature lettering papercuts, just 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) x 2 inches (5 cm). I was fascinated to see how Parth's practiced hand cuts cursive lettering via his series of paper cutting demos on YouTube - they are mesmerizing to watch.
In addition to papercuts, Parth creates sets of miniature steel containers that feature his original designs printed on glass lids.
Parth Kothekar has an Etsy shop and is on Instagram, Facebook, and Behance.
All Things Paper is an AWIN (Etsy) affiliate.
