In the realm of art, where brush meets canvas or fingers glide over clay, there lies a delicate dance of blade and paper known as papercutting.

In 1997, on one particularly cold and rainy New England winter day, a splash of vibrant origami papers brought to mind the California sunshine, and Jian suddenly had an urge to resume an ancient art form that she had learned as a hobby, growing up in China.

About The Artist

Jian Gao’s story began in China.

Later, In America, her dreams took root.

A retired teacher, author, papercut artist, writer, painter, and a lifelong learner,

she continues to play, explore, and discover.

Forever grateful for each moment’s grace,

she finds her place within life’s tapestry.

With a deep love for all things beautiful, a constant pursuit,

she embraces life’s wonders with gratitude.

About Jian’s Art

With paper, a craft knife, and a cutting mat,

intricate artworks come to life.

Each slice of paper tells her tale,

the craft knife tracing her soul.

Every cut a window, each piece a mirrored scene,

reflecting the inner worlds where she has been.

The dance of blade and paper, a delicate art,

expressing fragments of life, each close to her heart.

Through form and image, her experiences unfold,

in the silent language of papercut, her story is told.

Statement

I often find myself immersed in the quiet act of carving images into paper with a craft knife. Bit by bit, strip by strip, fragment by fragment, each cut holds a balance of yin and yang, motion and stillness, presence and absence.

In my handcut paper art, there are stories, longings, romance, echoes, emotions, whispers, dreams…When the blade meets paper, a steady joy rises gently within me.

Through papercutting, I seek not only to hold onto life’s fleeting moments, but also to carve a quiet path inward, where paper and knife move in silent rhythm - becoming vessels for feeling, reflection, and wonder.

Exhibitions

Group: Love, Actually! Art Garage Delray Beach, FL Jan 2 - March 2, 2026

Solo: Papercut Poetry Weston Public Library Weston MA 2024

Solo: Papercut Poetry Eastham Public Library Eastham MA 2023

Group: Whispers in Paper The Landau Gallery Belmont MA 2008

Publications www.chinesewithease.com