VICTORIA JONES, Lincoln

Last Updated: 30 January 2010 910 views 5 Comments Posted by: B-Side Empire

Name: Victoria Jones

University: University of Lincoln

Course: Fine Art

“I started creating paper cuts during the second year of my Fine Art degree at the University of Lincoln. After experimenting with different cutting techniques and a variety of paper, now in my third year I have begun to focus my work. Using a craft knife I cut tiny, repetitive, circular patterns into paper. A structure of connecting circles builds over the sheet so some of the original form has been kept, but the page also becomes really fragile. The cutting of these circles transforms the papers surface so it has a lace-like texture and delicacy. The various sized circle shapes are intended to appear like microscopic cells growing across the paper. Using a craft knife to cut these shapes makes the process not only obsessive but akin to a surgical procedure. A knife has been used rather than tearing or burning into the paper because the cuts created are much more precise. Conscious decisions have to be made when using a knife as the exact position of the cut has to be determined. Considering the size of the cuts and the type of paper being used, the process of cutting is both very obsessive and time-consuming. This repetitive ritualistic practice is quite calming and almost creates a meditative state, as so much concentration and focus is involved. The number of minutes taken to create each piece is timed and then this becomes the title. For example the A3 piece ‘2835′ took 2835 minutes which is equivalent to 47 hours and 15 minutes of cutting. The process of making the work is also reductive, taking away circular shapes from the paper in order to create. The use of standard sized sheets comments on the easy availability of paper in today’s mass-produced society and how we so often take paper for granted.”