Scherenschnitte and Silhouettes
The Scissor-Cutting Art of Marie-Helene L. Grabman
"Master Papercutter"
"Love Knot II" "Amish Celebration" "Swiss Circle Woodland"
ARTIST EXHIBITIONS GALLERY 1 GALLERY 2 GALLERY 3 GALLERY 4
GALLERY 5 GALLERY 6 CUSTOM DESIGNS FAQ's LINKS
Welcome to my Web Page and "Virtual Studio" of my Award Winning Paper Cuttings
My artwork has been described as "traditional Swiss-German scherenschnitte (scissor cuttings) with elements of collage and original silhouettes". Each "museum quality", original, copyrighted paper cut design is hand cut with European scissors. Many of the scherenschnitte cuttings, some shown on this page as well as in my GALLERY pages have full or partial symmetry in their composition. (Click on each thumbnail to get details, size and price information.) This is achieved by folding the paper as it is cut. The "collage" element in my work comes into play after the scissor cutting is complete. The intricate scherenschnitte, one piece of paper, forms the base for the collage. Sometimes I add 2 or 3 more layers of cut paper to this base. Other times, I use ink or acrylic paint to add more detail.
I cut some designs in the traditional silhouette tradition, meaning there is no symmetry as with scherenschnitte. I cut portrait silhouettes from photographs or from scheduled sittings, occasionally as entertainment at festivals or parties.
Did you know...
In 2007, I received the "International Distinguished Papercutting Arts Master Award" from the EastWest Association of Artists, Inc., New York City.
In August 2007, I was invited to attend the International Papercutting Festival in Datong, China. The Chinese have one of my cuttings in their new papercutting museum's collection.
In August 2005, Early American Life awarded me the magazine's first Heritage Artisan Award for outstanding craftsmanship! The EAL panel of 20 professional jurors said that "...Marie-Helene's work reflects both a high level of technical excellence in terms of the detail as well as a strong understanding of the historical basis for this type of work... Outstanding!"
I was asked to create an ornament for the White House Blue Room Christmas Tree in 1999. It is in their permanent collection.
In 2007, I collaborated with Secret Garden Kaleidescopes for a design that became part of the laser cut wooden case of their collector kaleidescopes.
In 2006, I created the artwork for NYC singer Nina Nastasia's newest album and CD. It is called, "On Leaving", her 4th release.
My work receives "Best of Show" awards at many of the shows where I exhibit.
NOTE: This web site is designed primarily for those who have already viewed my work. The pictures in the Galleries are not photographed in high resolution on purpose. I have found my copyrighted work on other sites. Friends of mine have found their work printed on t-shirts and sold on auction sites. Therefore, if you wish to contact me, I will be happy to send you more detailed images. Please keep in mind that in this medium, it is difficult to accurately convey the intricacy and detail as well as the dimensional quality of my work. I hope you can visit me at one of the EXHIBITIONS where I exhibit, so you can study the work "up close".
Some of my pictures are custom designs. Just click on the highlighted text for the Wedding Designs or the Children Design please.
I enjoy custom orders. If I can design something for you, please email, write or call me.
For more information about the art of Scherenschnitte, please go to the FAQ page.
How do you purchase a picture?
I do not have an order form included in this web site since some of the work in the Gallery pages is one of a kind and may have been already purchased. Please contact me to discuss availability. Purchases can be made by credit card, Pay Pal, or check, and I can also work out a "lay away" system at no additional charge. With the help of my digital camera, I can even email pictures of frames to show you various choices available!
How do you schedule my silhouette services?
Please email, write or call me to inquire on availability and prices.
Thank you for visiting my "Virtual Studio!"
Marie-Helene Lawler Grabman 5862 Governors Hill Dr., Alexandria, VA 22310
703-341-6611 email: scissorcutter@yahoo.com
For more work by me and other talented artists, please check out the following websites:
Traditional Folk Art
http://www.traditionalfolkart.com/
The Guild of American Papercutters
These pictures are the registered, COPYRIGHTED designs of Marie-Helene L. Grabman. They are made available for viewing only. You may not reproduce, print, download or altar these images in any way. You may not distribute these images in any way for free or for profit. ©2000-2010