Our August Artist of the month goes to paper illustrator Nicola Dobrowolski whose vibrant, dimensional constructions develop out of her love of story-telling.
Nicola Dobrowolski
“I’ve a “2.5 dimensional” strategy. I really like paper in its easiest two dimensional type, however slicing into it and revealing one thing behind is so thrilling.”
The place do you make your paper artwork?
I’ve a studio within the attic which is mild and ethereal with a view of tree tops and fields, its bliss! I’m so fortunate to have this. When it’s tidy it feels enormous, however it doesn’t take lengthy for a undertaking to take over!
How lengthy have you ever been working with paper?
I’ve been working solely with paper since 2015, however my love for paper began many years earlier than this!
How would you describe your strategy to paper artwork?
I’d say I’ve a “2.5 dimensional” strategy. I really like paper in its easiest two dimensional type, however slicing into it and revealing one thing behind is so thrilling. Including a curve to this or a slight bend, or standing it so it helps itself but nonetheless seems to be a easy piece of paper is magic to my mind even in spite of everything this time. Not too long ago I used to be requested to enterprise into 3D for a industrial undertaking, and though it took a little bit of pondering I fortunately accustomed myself to it. I simply love paper, I’ve an affinity with it.
The place do you discover inspiration?
In a robust narrative. I’ve at all times liked the saying by Lorinda Mamo, a designer. She places it completely “Each nice design begins with an excellent higher story.” Having educated as a theatre designer, I’m at all times starting my work with a story, a play, a narrative. That is the temporary that I work to. Creating one thing for the sake of it’s inconceivable for me, it simply feels pointless. However having a narrative as the inspiration makes something doable.
Describe your work to us in three phrases:
Multilayered, detailed, storytelling
What are your favourite papers to work with?
G.F Smith, all day every single day. They’re the perfect I do know and I like to recommend them to everybody!
What software might you not stay with out?
Swann Morton scalpel, 10A Blades, Jakar – clear A1 chopping matt, stainless-steel ruler, UHU Glue! … that’s just about every thing!
What’s the smartest thing about working with paper as a medium?
It so fast and clear to work with. I really like a crisp sharp edge and paper provides that with one easy slice. And it’s accessible and relatable to everybody. It could possibly tackle so many varieties and its so tactile… there’s no different medium prefer it for me. I find it irresistible!
Who’re your favourite paper artists?
Eiko Ojala – though he isn’t a bodily paper artist. Its digital paper. So intelligent. But it surely’s his ideas that I really feel a robust connection to.
Helen Musselwhite – I’ve liked her work for a few years. I really like the symmetry of her a few of her nature artworks work – it’s one thing that I really like however might by no means do, my mind gained’t permit it!
Samantha Quinn – I really like Sammie’s daring use of color and geometric patterns. Her model is one thing that I massively recognize however might by no means do.
So, I really like all paper artwork, however particularly recognize issues that I couldn’t envisage creating.
What are you engaged on in the intervening time?
Sadly I can’t say, however its the most important and most poignant undertaking I’ve ever executed. All can be revealed in September. My earlier undertaking was a vibrant and fruity entrance cowl and journal particulars for The Wine Society’s Autumn version fo 1874. They had been fabulous to work with and I’m thrilled with the outcome. Didn’t get to attempt the wine although!
