Paper cuts are annoyingly painful. Unless, of course, those paper cuts were constructed by Jonathan Chapman (aka Mr. Yen). Jonathan, a hybrid typographer, graphic designer and paper artist delicately hand cuts beautiful designs and illustrations to make stationery and fine art. His craft is exemplified by pieces such as lampshades made entirely out of paper-silhouetted alphabets and phrases cut from a single sheet. Get a slice of what inspires this young artist in his 10 ANSWERS below.
1. How would you describe your work in three words?
Delicate, time-consuming, simple.
2. Who is your creative role model?
Rob Ryan. I love the way he has taken paper-cut art and applied it in so many useful creative ways, from tiles, tea towels & tape to cards and prints.
3. If you had an extra hour each day what would you do with it?
Probably waste it on sleep.
4. What place in the world most inspires you and why?
Japan. After visiting there a few years ago, the Japanese aesthetic has definitely been a huge influence in my work. Simplicity is something I always find interesting and inspiring.
5. If you could do a different job for a day what would it be and why?
I think I would like to do something with my hands, maybe woodwork or metal work as I love to make things & experiment with materials.
6. What is your favorite homemade gift to give?
Food of any kind!
7. What is your favorite object in your home?
That would have to be my bed. I bought it from Muji and it is the most comfortable bed I have ever owned!
8. What is the best advice you have ever received?
If a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing well.
9. What websites do you use for inspiration?
Design*Sponge, Apartment Therapy, brown paper bag, poppytalk and UPPERCASE.
10. When do you consider a piece of your work complete?
Never, I just reach a stage where I am satisfied with something enough to call it “complete” but there is always room for improvement & experimentation!
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