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Japanese Artist Hand-Cuts Intricate Octopus From Single Sheet of Paper

Kirie Paper Cutting Art Octopus by Masayo Fukuda

Paper cutting art requires tremendous patience and a steady hand, and Japanese artist Masayo Fukuda has mastered the craft. Known as Kirie in Japanese (translated as “cut picture”), the traditional art form involves cutting intricate forms from a single sheet of white paper and then contrasting it against a black background to reveal the design. Fukuda has been practicing Kirie for 25 years and has recently revealed what she believes to be her best work of 2018—an incredible life-sized paper octopus.

At first glance, the beautiful artwork looks as though it was rendered using fine-tipped pens, but Fukuda carefully cut every detail from one sheet of paper. The elaborate depiction details the majestic sea animal’s rounded body, bulging eyes, and 8 long arms. Various textured sections look like pieces of delicate patterned lace, such arm suckers that resemble ornamental doilies and decorative swirling patterns on the head. The mesmerizing artwork celebrates the beauty of the fascinating species, who are known to change their skin color and texture within seconds to match their surroundings.

You can see Fukuda’s stunning Kirie designs up-close at Miraie Gallery in Osaka from April 24 through April 30, 2019. If you can’t make it to Japan, you can check out more of the artist’s impressive creations on Instagram.

Japanese artist Masayo Fukuda hand-cuts an incredible life-sized paper octopus from one sheet of paper.

Kirie Paper Cutting Art Octopus by Masayo Fukuda

The paper cutting art technique is known as Kirie in Japan.

Kirie Paper Cutting Art Octopus by Masayo Fukuda

The stunning design features various textured sections that look like pieces of delicate patterned lace.

Kirie Paper Cutting Art Octopus by Masayo Fukuda

Masayo Fukuda: Website | Instagram | Twitter
h/t: [Spoon & Tamago]

All images via Masayo Fukuda.

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Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
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