He was introduced to the idea of using paper as a medium during one of his art school classes. In the year 1983, he collaborated with the paper sculpture artist Jonathan Milne. While working on that project, Calvin was drawn towards the possibilities of paper sculpture in his career.

First sculptures

In the following year, he completed his first set of sculptures for several clients. He starts off with a quick line drawing, establishing planes and contours. Next, he maps out the topography of the piece. Every detail is drawn to have an understanding of the flow of fur or the feather layering. Calvin selects papers based on heavier weights for structure and lighter weights for fur and fine detail. 

He constantly refers to his drawings and study photos. This is done to make sure that the assembled pieces remain true to the original plan. Upon completion of the sculpture, he sets aside some time to play with the studio lighting. The form and texture in the low relief sculpture are defined. For use in print, a high-resolution photo captures the work of art in its optimal lighting. 

The sculpture is mounted on mats of conservation quality. It is then displayed under acrylic or museum glass to filter UV light. This also eliminates reflections for better views. The finished work is truly amazing. One would really find it hard to believe that it is sculpted from paper.

Calvin’s inspiration

Inspiration comes from his moments spent in nature and it happens when least expected. At times, it is simply a rock formation, a tree, driftwood, or a random situation that inspires him. It allows him to plant a subject into the scene. Acting on the inspiration is the most satisfying aspect of creating sculptures according to him. 

As it is difficult to relive the experience again, Calvin has to work on his inspiration immediately. Among his most beautiful works are the breathtaking landscapes of Canadian winter. Although he has managed to make a career out of his chosen niche, it certainly hasn’t been easy. He owes his success to his family and friends. According to him, hard work doesn’t always bring immediate rewards. 

The key, therefore, is perseverance and it seems to have served him well. Another critical aspect is monitoring opportunities in the world of art collection and commercial licensing. He enjoys sculpting scenes of snow, wet fur, and feathered friends. Confidence in his work and acceptance are also the two magic formulas that have worked for him. 

He also observes other successful artists for guidance in this competitive world. Although it is never easy, he certainly loves what he does. The struggle to find a place in the competitive market is never-ending. He feels that everything is a part of this grand adventure he has embarked on.

The post How Calvin Nicholls Creates Stunning Animal Paper Art appeared first on sherchristopher.com.

There are certain artists in this world who are capable of something exceptional. Such individuals can transform any ordinary material into an astonishing piece of art. Here, we’ve presented some of the talented paper sculpture artists who give life to ordinary pieces of paper:

1. Jeff Nishinaka

This artist has been a paper sculpture artist for three decades. Jeff Nishinaka earned an undergraduate degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. He then went on to pursue his passion for the craft at the Art Center College of Design. This is a renowned art school in California. Although he was interested in painting, Jeff’s experiences in the Art Center took him in a different direction. 

He decided to enhance his talent by handling several elements, which included paper. Jeff realized that paper was quite a flexible medium. This led him to create some amazing masterpieces by shaping paper while maintaining its character in the process. Paramount Pictures, Coca Cola, and Visa are some of the brands that have benefited from his works.

2. Yulia Brodskaya

A brilliant paper sculpture artist from Russia, Yulia developed an interest in origami, textile painting, and collage. This happened even before she underwent a formal education in art. After moving to the United Kingdom, she took her master’s degree at the University of Hertfordshire. She incorporated three of the things in her sculptures that she loved the most. 

They were paper, intricate handicrafts, and typography. Some truly magnificent projects were thus born. Her hard work paid off as she went on to work with some of the world’s largest brands. Hermes, Nokia, and Starbucks were some of her clients.

3. Cheong-ah Hwang

She was born and raised in South Korea. When it comes to the manipulation of paper, Cheong-ah Hwang has a natural gift in creating art. Cheong-ah Hwang was fascinated by this medium from a young age. As her parents had a printing shop in her hometown, she had access to different kinds of paper. 

This unleashed her inner potential to make ornate pieces of art out of them. She now lives in the United States and has become quite famous owing to her marvellous skills. One of her famed projects was a 2010 campaign for Kickstarter. It is an organization that provides funds for creative programs. 

She reproduced her complicated pieces through this project and they were sold at lower prices. She is also renowned for creating a cover image for Philip Pullman’s book, Grimm Tales for Young and Old.

4. Alexei Lyapunov and Lena Ehrlich

With the use of paper, this duo is focused on creating 3D figures and settings. Alexei Lyapunov and Lena Ehrlich are from Russia. They utilize cutting and slicing tools, rulers, tweezers, and metal wirings while making their elaborate artworks. Some of their popular paper sculptures are of music icons, such as Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson and The Beatles. 

They also received a lot of praise for ‘People Too’, their elaborate 3D miniature installations. It depicts some mundane scenarios, such as aeroplane travel and an office setting. These pieces of paper sculpture are laced with vibrant colours and a sense of humour.

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