Chigirie
Japanese Torn Paper Collage Art
Original Hand Torn Japanese Art
By Paper Artist, Joan M. Matsui

Chigirie, Japanese Torn Paper Collage art is the Japanese art of tearing paper to create a collage, it's also known as painting with paper.

A Private Residence

Waverly, PA

I am enjoying a beautiful spring here in Northeast Pennsylvania. The sun and warm temperatures are ideal for a hike in the woods or a ride on country roads. I've taken so time away from my art to pursue my love for writing and journalism. In addition to working as an artist, I'm also a correspondent for The Abington Journal and Times Leader newspapers. And, seven months later, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to do both art and writing.

From January to May, 2010, my art was exhibited at the Wenham Museum in Wenham, Massachusetts. This is an extraordinary museum located in a lovely town on the North Shore approximately 10 miles north of Boston. What an honor it has been for me to take part in this exhibit. Sadly, seven pieces of my art will be on their way home from Massachusetts.

If you're not familiar with Chigirie, it's the art of painting with paper. I'm not referring to painting on paper. Chigirie is the Japanese art of using pre-dyed paper to create a collage. My art is often confused with a watercolor because when the paper is layered, it creates an effect similar to a painting from impressionist period. While I'm sure there are artists, and collage artists as well, that paint on paper and then create a collage, I use paper that's imported from villages and regions in Japan where paper making is a centuries old tradition. There is no substitute for beautiful handmade Japanese paper that offers endless opportunities for the expression of fine details.

Chigirie is also a centuries-old art form and literally means painting with paper to create a collage. In the case of larger pieces, there could be hundreds of hand torn small pieces of paper layered.

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Please visit Page Nine if you're in need of an architect or you'd like to learn more about Kunihiko Matsui's current projects. Contact Kunihiko Matsui Architects to discuss that building or renovation project you've been dreaming of. He also offers some wonderful ideas for Japanese style homes and out buildings.

Web site last updated on 06/01/2010 04:36 PM

Commissions are graciously accepted...

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Important Notice: This website or any of its contents may not be copied for any purpose without the express permission of the author and artist. © 2002 Joan M. Matsui