“Aquatic Interstellar Dream” (2018), Paper, acrylic, copper on canvas
While most artists use paint, pencil, or pastels to add color to canvas, Connecticut-based artist Amy Genser uses paper as her “pigment.” The mixed media artist explores color, texture, and pattern by arranging countless tubes of rolled paper into mesmerizing sculptural formations. Inspired by both macro- and micro-ecosystems found in nature, her works resemble clusters of cellular processes up close; and from afar, they appear like abstract aerial views of colorful landscapes and swirling oceans.
Genser constructs each paper sculpture by meticulously cutting, rolling, and layering paper scrolls in various sizes and colors. “When I discovered the layered, circular form, I loved how I could use this one simple module to create worlds of compositions,” says the artist. Whether you view the paper tubes as rock formations, sprigs of coral, moss, or barnacles, each piece is simultaneously irregular and ordered, mirroring the organic flow of nature. From systematic circular compositions in monochrome palettes to sprawling, swirling arrangements in vibrant hues, each three-dimensional piece is filled with energy and life.
Genser plans to explore dimensionality even further, by working beyond the confines of the canvas to bring her colorful paper scrolls to fill entire walls. “I’ve been looking at a lot of architecture, interior design, public art installations, museum installations,” she tells My Modern Met. “I have a vision of creating an entire space with my teeny tiny paper pieces…I want to make a paper piece environment that people can even walk through and around.”
You can keep up to date with Genser’s upcoming projects on Instagram and see more of the talented artist’s work on her website.
Amy Genser explores color, texture, and pattern by arranging countless tubes of rolled paper into mesmerizing sculptural formations.
“The Not So Itsy Bitsy Spider” (2017), Paper and acrylic on canvas, 65 x 35 inches
“Lunar Spin” (2016), Paper, copper, brass, aluminum and acrylic on canvas, 78” diameter
“Along for the Ride” (2017), paper and acrylic on canvas, 96 x 42 x 4 inches
Up close her works resemble clusters of cellular processes…
“Aqua Moon #4” (2016),paper and acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 x 3 inches
“Black and White Squares” (2018), Paper and acrylic on masonite, 42 x 42 x 3 inches
“Black and White Squares” (2018), Paper and acrylic on masonite, 42 x 42 x 3 inches
“Black and White Squares”, detail (2018), Paper and acrylic on masonite, 42 x 42 x 3 inches
“Black and White Squares”, detail (2018), Paper and acrylic on masonite, 42 x 42 x 3 inches
…from afar, her paper sculptures appear like abstract aerial views of colorful landscapes and swirling oceans.
“Any Which Way” (2018, paper and acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 x 4 inches
“She Met Her Match” (2017), paper and acrylic on canvas, 30 x 60 x 4 inches
Each piece is simultaneously irregular and ordered, mirroring the organic flow of nature.
“Collecting Pebbles” (2017), Paper and acrylic on canvas, 20 x 30 x 4 inches
“Black and White Squares” (2018), Paper and acrylic on masonite, 42 x 42 x 3 inches
“Tiny White Millions” (2018), paper and styrofoam on masonite, 4 x 6 x 3 inches