Michigan-based artistMatt Shlianfolds intricate and beautiful geometric sculptures on paper.
By looking at his incredibly detailed sculptures, one might think that the process requires a certain level of preparation, but the artist admits that it’s actually unpredictable.
“I begin with a system of folding and at a particular moment the material takes over. Guided by wonder, my work is made because I cannot visualize its final realization; in this way I come to understanding through curiosity,” said Shlian.
“Often I start without a clear goal in mind, working within a series of limitations. For example on one piece I'll only use curved folds, or make my lines this length or that angle etc. Other times I begin with an idea for movement and try to achieve that shape or form somehow. Along the way something usually goes wrong and a mistake becomes more interesting than the original idea and I work with that instead. I'd say my starting point is curiosity; I have to make the work in order to understand it. If I can completely visualize my final result I have no reason to make it—I need to be surprised.”
[via Matt Shlian]