Megan Brain’s Folded Paper Illustrations

Megan Brain uses layers of cut and folded paper to create images rich with depth and texture. As well as still images, Megan also creates paper puppets which have been used in live shows, film credits and adverts.

She was kind enough to answer a few questions for Ape on the Moon about what got her started.

What got you started working with paper?

I started working with paper in 2004 when I took a design and color course taught by paper sculptor Leo Monahan. He showed the class some of his paper cutting techniques and it really intrigued me.

I went home and made a little ship out of paper.  After that I had a flood of ideas for projects that I wanted to execute in paper– Brazilian carnival girls, jungles, vintage fashions and so on.  I felt like I hit on a medium that really excited me.

Why use paper, rather than more traditional methods?

I used to just draw but once I started playing with paper I had more ideas for projects.  I love the way paper art looks and I like discovering effects that can be created with it.  Cut paper has a sharp deliberate look.  I like creating  textures, and layering pieces on top of each other to create depth.  I also really enjoy working with tangible materials and making things with my hands.

What would you describe as the highlight of your illustration career thus far?

Working with Walt Disney Imagineering.  They are the division of Disney that is responsible for the amusements parks and cruise ships.   I’ve always dreamed of working with them but I didn’t know how to get my work seen by the right people that could hire me.  Luckily, they found me via my website and hired me to work on the “World of Color” water show at Disney’s California adventure.  I have continued to work for them and they have given me wonderful projects and challenges.

What influences your work?

That class I took back in 2004 had the biggest influence on my work.  My teacher Leo taught the German Bauhaus “Design and Color” course created by the Swiss artist Johannes Itten.  The course is so great because it teaches artist how to control the tools of design (line, space, shape, color, texture, form,size, and value) and be thoughtful with these tools.

With every art piece I start off by asking my self basic questions about the project–do I want this to be sweet, scary, elegant, energetic, silly, or dark..etc.  Then I try to pick the right shapes and colors that will help bring that feeling across in the piece.

What’s your dream project?

I would love to do some fashion illustration.  I’m very inspired by haute couture runway shows.  It would also be great to design on a short animated film or do some children’s book illustration.   My favorite projects are ones that are inspired by world culture and/or time periods.

© Megan Brain, 2010