A l i s a + L a h t i + A r t

Intricate, colorful, abstract art using handcut paper.
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STATEMENT
My artwork is created using intricate, hand cut paper combined with other mixed media elements. I am inspired by my Polish heritage, life in the Pacific Northwest and nature, with interpretations ranging from traditional to contemporary design influences.
BIO
Alisa Lahti was born and raised in the Seattle, Washington area of the U.S. where her interest in paper-cutting began with her early exposure to various kinds of traditional wycinanki* from her Polish heritage. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Puget Sound and has advanced her studies with continuing education through several organizations, most notably Studio Art Centers International (Florence, Italy), Coupeville Arts Center (Coupeville, WA), School of Visual Concepts and Pratt Fine Arts Center (Seattle, WA). A member of the Guild of American Papercutters, Alisa’s paper-cutting skills are self-taught with particular study of the work of the late Seattle-area Polish artist, Adam Wleklinsky. Her studio is in West Seattle. 

*About WYCINANKI

Wycinanki (vih-chee-non-kee) is the Polish version of the art form of fine paper-cutting dating from the early to mid 19th century. It was traditionally created in rural areas of Poland using sheep shears and used as gifts and decoration for homes. Distint styles evolved and developed from different regions as techniques were handed down from generation to generation. The spirit of the art form can be seen in its patterns and abstract, whimsical versions of birds, plants and scenes from everyday life.