Marie-Helene Grabman

Artist Statement

Scherenschnitte is both my connection to the past and my way of interpreting the present. Introduced to this centuries-old Swiss-German paper cutting tradition as a child by my grandmother, I continue to honor its craftsmanship while allowing it to evolve through my own artistic voice.
Each design begins as an original mental image and is cut entirely by hand with surgical scissors from a single sheet of paper. While rooted in traditional Scherenschnitte, my work reflects the landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences of America, creating a dialogue between European folk art and contemporary subjects.
I depart from the traditional practice of mounting paper cuttings flat by allowing selected elements to remain raised. This subtle three dimensionality invites changing light and shadow to become part of the artwork, giving each piece a sense of movement and depth.
Through my work, I hope to preserve the beauty of an historic art form while demonstrating that tradition is not static. It can continue to grow, connect cultures, and reveal new ways of seeing the world.