Paper Art by Sarah Suplina
My latest interview is with Sarah Suplina, an art educator and paper artist living and working in New York. Using only snippets of painted paper, Sarah creates stunning works of art inspired by the natural world. In this interview, Sarah shares her process for creating paper art, and discusses what compelled her to work in this medium.
Hi Sarah! Tell me about your background and where your creative journey began.
I've always loved art, ever since I was a little girl. I've been working in the art field now for over 25 years in different professions: Graphic Designer, muralist and now full-time art teacher. Throughout my different art professions, I have never lost my own artistic voice. Creating my own art is very important to me.
How did you become involved in paper art, and what initially drew you to this medium?
I started using paper as a result of being bored with traditional watercolors. I was working on landscapes and finding them dull. One day I just started cutting up my paintings and then placing and layering the paper to create a whole new, different landscape. I loved the process and the textural layers; I was hooked. This was over eight years ago; and my love, skill and enthusiasm for paper art has only increased through time.
Your paper art is incredibly intricate and detailed. Can you describe your process and the length of time it typically takes to create an artwork from paper?
Since I am a full time art teacher, I can only work in short time clips. And because of this, I prefer working small. I am able to complete a snippet or collage in less time than if I worked larger. I always start with a subject that inspires, and I usually work in series rather than random subjects. Once I'm excited to start a new piece, I research, sketch and then start the cutting process. I paint all my own paper and have a very large supply of colors at this point. If I need a special color or texture, I will paint that paper prior to cutting. Once most pieces are cut, I will layer and glue together. And then the last step is painting the details...and voila, a snippet is born!
One thing that stands out to me about your work is that it often references the natural world; specifically birds, flowers, and plants. Can you tell me about what inspires you, and what led you to focus on depicting nature and animals?
My art is my own vision (unless working on a commission), so I get to choose what I love...and I love nature. The natural world is absolutely beautiful, inspirational and never ceases to amaze me.
In addition to creating beautiful paper artwork, are there any other creative projects you are working on, or hope to begin in the future?
Right now I'm in the middle of moving, so once we settle I hope to create an amazing workspace for me. Right now I have a basement studio (no widows!). In addition, I'm constantly creating new and exciting lessons for my students at school. I'm always creating!
When did you join Instagram, and how has it impacted you as an artist?
I started my Sarahsnippets account on Instagram in November 2018 as a platform to inspire, share and have fun with my art. The response has been truly incredible. The support and feedback from Instagram has definitely helped encourage me to create more and more.
Where do you hope to see yourself and your work in 10 years?
I hope to see myself even more engaged with my art and my teaching. What does that mean? I am not fully sure. So far, life has unfolded beautifully for me (with many bumps too) and I look forward to what the future brings.
Follow Sarah on Instagram at: sarahsnippets
Website: linktr.ee/sarahsnippets