Gothic Papercut Sculpture

Description This papercut sculpture was designed in 2024 by artist Gregory Daines. 131x131mm 9 Layers 130 gsm/62 lbs acid-free matt paper made from wood pulp Mounted and backed 8×8″. This series of layered papercuts maps the exploration of architectural forms in much the same way as the artisans of the Crusades, whose travels to far-flung lands introduced them to new ideas, theologies and visual stimuli. These discoveries had a significant impact on European architecture and many elements subsequently found their way into churches, cathedrals and monasteries built in the ensuing centuries. Crusaders spent years in regions boasting rich and diverse architectural traditions: from the Byzantine basilicas to the intricate geometric motifs of Islamic buildings. Gothic is at the turning point, when the geometric star forms were bonded with the classic naturalistic elements of stonemasonry, used in widows. As an Artist inspired by architecture and layering, these delicate papercuts can symbolise transformation and influence in a changing world. Stone and paper are transposed and we can see through the shadows and light created in the form’s relief, that beauty is the enduring legacy of ideas which are creatively shared and embraced.