(About)

About the Artist

Kimberly Low is a designer and artist based in San Francisco, California. She is known for her work with hand cut paper.

She began working with cut paper in her college design classes. The very first pieces were small, abstract compositions that explored color relationships, but it was her final project in an art theory class that started her fascination with cutting ever-smaller, ever-more-detailed shapes. Since then, she’s been drawn to capturing the subtle magic hidden in the simplest and most common of views.

The artist's hands cut a template of leaves and flowers on a green sheet of paper using a craft knife. A small set of cut out elements sits nearby.

A rough marker and ink sketch of Land’s End sprawls across the page, adorned by a small flock of pencilled pigeons, a scrap of salmon-colored paper decorated by a scalloped edge, and tiny swatches of colored pencil in oranges and light grays. The sketch is labeled: Ocean Beach / Land’s End / Jan. 5.

A stack of colored papers sits under a shaft of sunlight against a white backdrop.

The artist's hand holds a bouquet of cut out kelp against a white wall.

Two sets of unfinished flower compositions are scattered on a table with paper offcuts, a hobby knife, and bits of templates.

questions

What are you inspired by?

Most pieces are inspired by scenery from local walks and trips. I’m drawn to the details and moods that create a sense of place. Even if I’m just walking through my neighborhood, down the same streets over and over again, I try to keep my eyes open and notice new details or compositions.

II.

What’s your process?

I snap photographs when I’m inspired on my walks and adventures. Once I get home, I reference these photos and loosely sketch out some small thumbnails. After I create a composition I’m happy with, I hop on my drawing tablet and computer to create a more detailed plan, figuring out colors and adding details. The finished digital drawing is used to create “templates” for the final piece. From there, it’s a series of therapeutic sessions using the humble craft knife, some bookbinding glue, toothpicks, and (sometimes) thread, needle, and an awl.

III.

Who photographs all your artwork?

I photograph all of the artwork I make. All photos on this site are by me except for the very first image on this page, which was photographed by Monica Semergiu.

IV.

Can I ask you another question?

Yes! Reach out via email.