Lantern Bearers

-8 x 10" archival print of my original hand-cut and layered paper artwork 

-1/4" white border all sides

-Printed on Heavy Card Stock with minimal tooth

I created this piece as an homage to Maxfield Parrish—American painter and illustrator active in the first half of the 20th century. His works featured distinctive saturated hues and idealized neo-classical imagery.

My cut paper interpretation of Parrish’s lively nocturne combines all the elements of the artist’s most successful works: fantastical characters, luminous color, and a sense of mystery. A tightly clustered group of clowns pose on a stage-like setting of wide stone steps, hanging glowing yellow lanterns against a silhouetted tree and a “Parrish Blue” sky. In the background hover four more golden orbs, leaving the viewer to wonder which, if any, is the moon.

All cut paper work is made by hand and is one-of-a-kind unique. Time invested in making the original artwork including drawing the image, selecting paper colors, hand-cutting each piece, assembling, and gluing: 110 hours.