Meet Parth Kothekar, a self-taught papercut artist hailing from Ahmedabad, India. Unlike the conventional path, Parth’s artistic journey started with a detour from graphics and animation school to pursue his passion for 2D art. His story unfolds through graffiti and a unique twist to stencils, leading him to the captivating world of paper-cut art.
Journey into Paper-Cut Art
In 2012, inspired by inverted stencils during his graffiti endeavors, Parth stumbled upon the idea of paper-cut art. Initially a hobby, his fascination with the concept led to a remarkable exhibition in 2013, showcasing 84 paper cuts at the Kanoria Center of Arts in Ahmedabad. Parth’s steady hand, honed through stencil cutting, laid the foundation for his papercutting skills.
Creating Paper-Cut Art: From Concept to Reality
Parth’s creative process involves sketching the concept on paper, refining it digitally, and then printing the design onto sketching paper. The meticulous act of cutting, determining negative and positive spaces, and the suspense of the final outcome fuel his motivation throughout the artistic journey.
Challenges in Popularizing Paper-Cut Art in India
After initial exhibitions across eight Indian cities, Parth faced challenges in finding his audience. However, a strategic shift to online platforms and consistent uploading of his work gradually gained him recognition. The power of the internet became a key ally in popularizing his unique form of art.
Techniques and Tools of the Trade
Parth employs sketching paper ranging from 120gsm to 220gsm, selecting the weight based on artwork intricacy. His choice of tools includes a 0.5mm lead pencil for sketching and a specially crafted knife, the “ohpapercuts knife,” for precision cutting. Flipping the design post-cutting conceals pencil marks, ensuring a flawless finish.
Diverse Subjects and Artistic Adaptation
From floral designs to Game of Thrones characters with an Indian twist, Parth’s diverse subjects evolve organically during the creative process. The fusion of imagination, experimentation, and execution brings his unique papercut artworks to life.
Reception of Paper-Cut Art in Different Cultural Contexts
While initially explaining the art form was necessary in India, Parth noticed a more receptive audience abroad, especially in Western countries. The wider exposure and vocabulary in the West facilitated a deeper understanding and appreciation for paper-cut art compared to its nascent stage in India.
Financial Challenges and Studio Establishment
Parth’s artistic journey was not without financial struggles. From selling personal belongings to mortgaging his bike multiple times, he faced the challenges of sustaining an unconventional art career. International recognition and custom projects, along with collaborations with Indian brands, became the turning point in overcoming financial hurdles.
Future Aspirations and Constant Exploration
Parth remains goal-free, finding joy in the continuous process of experimentation and self-challenge. Breaking his own artistic boundaries and exploring new horizons are integral to his creative philosophy. For Parth, the present is where the future unfolds, driven by a passion for the art of papercutting.
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