Patrick Gannon, japan illustrations

“Layer upon textural layer, my cut and torn paper artwork builds upwards to reveal an invisible world that exists intertwined with our own. Mythology, the supernatural, American pop culture and Japanese tradition mingle like tipsy guests at a cocktail party. I use my knife to shape each jagged piece, slicing away at illusion and giving form to a wondrous, dangerous and not-at-all-alien world of emotion, spirit and thought. There is a primitive quality to paper that calls out to be touched. It is rough, textured, basic. I use this sensuality to evoke an immediate, gut-level response.” - Patrick Gannon
When paper was first invented in China, it was regarded as a rare and precious commodity - and art created through paper cutouts were gifts reserved only for noblemen and royalty. Today, this centuries-old artform has reached the able hands of Patrick Gannon - an artist from New Jersey who now lives in Tokyo.
Patrick Gannon’s art is created from cut and torn paper, and more recently he has been incorporating wood in his work as well. He collects paper from all over the world - much of it is handmade paper or Washi from Japan. These elements are collaged together in layers to build a bold, unique and often fun first impression against a subtext of concept and metaphor that tries to communicate to us Patrick’s own personal mythology and his views of the current world.
Patrick has an MFA in illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design and his illustrations can be seen internationally in books, magazines, newspapers. He is also currently exhibiting at Gallery 1988 San Francisco at a group show entitled “Everyone in Together”, it runs until the 12th of July. He’ll be exhibiting again at Gallery 1988 San Francisco on August 15, 2008 for a show entitled “Paper Pushers”.
To see more of Patrick’s work online, visit his website and his blog.