Mishka Luft - Papercut Art

Gallery

Click on any photograph to enlarge.

Baby naming

Baby namings, whether Jewish or not, are opportunities to create something very special for someone new to the world. I like to work with the child's name, again whether Hebrew or English (or Spanish, Portuguese, ...). A baby's name often has significance: it may be meaningful as an honor to the memory of a deceased family member; it may reflect the time of year (think of April or June), a place or physical occurrence (Tal - dew; Laila - nighttime), or circumstance of the birth; or it may promote a wish for the child's future (Tikva - hope, Shalom - peace).

Bar/bat mitzvah

For these special occasions I work with the client to create a meaningful expression of the celebration. This could be a representation of the Parsha, or the themes of the Haftorah or other meaningful parts of the service. I include texts which are meaningful or inspirational. Some papercuts also are an expression of the Bar or Bat Mitzvah child, including their interests or characteristics. All become a welcome personal remembrance of this important ritual in Jewish life. Many of the papercuts are made into the invitations sent for the event.

Weddings and anniversaries

Most designs are developed with the client, working to personalize the papercut to represent the couple and/or the event. I use many of the traditional Jewish themes in weddings, and usually try to work in the mystical tradition of the number seven: seven circles which the bride and groom walk around each other, the seven blessings (Sheva Brachot), two cups of wine, etc. I also personalize cuts with images which are important to the couple.

General Judaic cuts

Many papercuts fulfill the mitzvah of Hiddur Mitzvah, enhancing a mitzvah with something being more beautiful rather than just being utilitarian. The Mizrach helps find the eastern wall towards which Westerners must pray. The Hamsa is a folk-developed amulet for protection. Many sayings from Pirkei Avot (Wisdom of the Fathers) or Psalms are illustrated to add to the beauty of a home.

Nature and other inspirations

Many things in life provide inspiration for papercuts. These are some of my personal favorites.