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| copyright - Jeanette Kuvin Oren |
The art of paper cutting has a special place in my heart. It
is steeped in tradition that has found its way into both Ashkenazi and
Sephardic folk art going back to the 15th century and perhaps even earlier.
Interestingly Ashkenazi and Sephardic designs were in fact quite different in
style, the first being very decorative, filling every space with intricate
designs, while the latter being less complicated and simpler in symbolism.
In the 20th century, this art form had a rebirth
of sorts. Today there are many artists pushing the limits of this craft to new
levels.
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| Ketubah - copyright Jeanette Kuvin Oren |
The work of Jeanette Kuvin Oren is an example where paper
cut technique meets fiber art/stained glass/ laser cut metal in a blend of
ancient tradition and modern creative brilliance. The breadth of her portfolio
and the lengths to which she is undeterred by the various material limitations
is very inspiring.
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| Torah cover - copyright Jeanette Kuvin Oren |
Jeanette is self-trained in all of these mediums. After
completing a Masters degree in Public Health and most of her PhD in Epidemiology
at the prestigious Universities of Princeton and Yale, she decided to go with
her passion full time — creating commissioned Judaic art and graphic design.
Her accomplishments are substantial. She has created more than 350 installation
pieces worldwide, in many mediums including mosaics, fiber art, paper cutting,
painting, laser cut metal and sometimes combinations of these mediums. Aside
from large installations, she also does commissions for individual ketubot as
well as other Judaica related fiber art.
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| Chuppah - copyright Jeanette Kuvin Oren |
I came across her work as I was doing some research on paper
cut ketubah design. As I mentioned, I really love this craft, and I really
appreciate the symbolism of using an age-old tradition to create unique and
meaningful ketubah design for today’s modern couples. Her integration of fiber
art with paper cut technique especially intrigues me. Her work in this area
shows not only her creativity, but also her knowledge of craft at the highest
level.
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| Laser cut metal gates - copyright Jeanette Kuvin Oren |
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| Ketubah - copyright Jeanette Kuvin Oren |
You can find out more about Jeanette and see more of her
work on her website. Here is her facebook page, and a link to her shop. If you
spend some time looking at her work, I believe you will be as inspired as I
was.
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| Ketubah - copyright Jeanette Kuvin Oren |
There are several other paper cut artists I am going to be
writing about soon. There are too many amazing artists out there, to limit
myself to sharing only one!
Until next time!
