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Paper Cutting: Contemporary Artists, Timeless Craft
Today we review a gorgeous book that introduces the best of paper cutting artistry today. This is not a how-to manual, but it may well inspire teens to take it up.
If they do, they will find information, instruction and examples on the internet. In her introduction, Natalie Avella offers a piece on the current state of paper cutting, including the fact that the internet has significantly increased its visibility and popularity.
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HEYENGA, Laura. Paper Cutting: Contemporary Artists, Timeless Craft. 176p. photos. bibliog. notes. Chronicle. 2011. pap. $27.50. ISBN 978-0811874526. LC number unavailable.
Adult/High School– Interest in paper crafts is on the rise as evidenced by the plethora of blogs, exhibitions, and online shops that showcase this medium. This book provides a stunning look at the work of 26 contemporary cut-paper artists. In Natalie Avella’s introduction, readers learn about the rich history of this ancient art that began in China more than a thousand years before most Europeans had ever seen paper and explains how it eventually reached North America. Each artist has 5-to-10 photos of his/her work that showcase elaborate and unbelievable detail. Some take old books and cut new life into them, some use everyday objects and transform them to reflect contemporary culture, some use color and pattern while others use a single color of paper. Included are brief biographies of each artist as well as a selected list of resources about paper and the art of paper cutting. This jaw-dropping book is a feast for the eyes that will appeal to a wide spectrum of readers, from professional paper cutters to casual observers of the art. The book begs to be pored over repeatedly. Teens may very likely want to take up scissors and paper.–Jane Ritter, Mill Valley School District, CA
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About Angela Carstensen
Angela Carstensen is Head Librarian and an Upper School Librarian at Convent of the Sacred Heart in New York City. Angela served on the Alex Awards committee for four years, chairing the 2008 committee, and chaired the first YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adult committee in 2009. Recently, she edited Outstanding Books for the College Bound: Titles and Programs for a New Generation (ALA Editions, 2011). Contact her via Twitter @AngeReads.
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