Aleppo , Mar. 14 (SANA) In the realm of art, unique experiences occasionally emerge that defy convention and offer viewers a fresh visual encounter. Among these stands the art of raised paper sculpture (Rölyef Kağıdı), a discipline rooted in patience, precision, and imagination transforming layered sheets of paper into living, breathing artworks.
In this interview, we explore the journey of Syrian artist Suha Aus from Aleppo who discovered her passion for this craft in 2017 in Istanbul. Today, her three-dimensional creations carry a distinctive signature and resonate deeply with audiences.
Beginnings: From Art Workshop to Lifelong Passion
Suha Aus shared with SANA’s English that her artistic journey began in 2017 when she enrolled in a specialized course at the ISMEK Institute in Istanbul, earning a certified qualification in raised paper sculpture.
This art form involves assembling 10 to 12 layers of specialized cardboard. Each layer is uniquely cut and meticulously arranged atop one another, culminating in a three-dimensional piece that evokes depth and vitality for the viewer.
A Distinctive Art Bearing a Personal Signature
Suha explains that what drew her most to this craft was its uniqueness. No two pieces are identical even when created by the same artist. She believes the essence of this art lies in personal taste and the individual imprint the artist leaves on each work. From the very beginning, she felt she had found the closest means of expressing herself.
From Passion to Profession
Though Suha had no prior academic training in art, she had always been passionate about creative handmade crafts. After obtaining her certification from ISMEK, she continued refining her skills through practice, experimentation, and observation. Today, her works reflect a high level of precision and craftsmanship.
Challenges of the Early Path
The journey was not easy. This art demands immense patience and focus; even a minor error in one layer can compromise the entire piece.
Additionally, she faced the challenge of introducing an art form not widely recognized. People can only truly appreciate its beauty when viewing it in person and experiencing its visual depth firsthand.
Simple Tools… Stunning Results
Despite the elegance of the final pieces, the tools required are relatively simple.
Suha primarily uses a small hobby knife known in Turkish as hobi bıçağı to cut the layers, along with adhesives to secure them. In the final stage, she adds aesthetic touches using various decorative elements and a special spray that lends the piece a subtle sheen while preserving its longevity.
Time… A Fundamental Element in Creativity
The time required to complete each piece varies by size and detail.
Smaller works may take approximately two weeks, while larger, intricate pieces can span one to two full months reflecting the dedication and patience invested in every creation.
From Concept to Living Sculpture
Each piece begins with a moment of contemplation and study.
According to Suha, she does not begin cutting immediately. Instead, she first plans the distribution of layers and the cutting method for each to achieve the desired three-dimensional effect. This process blends the technical foundations she learned with imagination and personal taste.
Sources of Inspiration: From Nature to Heritage
The artist draws inspiration from diverse sources: natural landscapes, Islamic art, cultural heritage, and music. Yet she finds particular joy in fulfilling custom commissions designing pieces for couples, corporate logos, national flags, or works tied to visual identity.
An Artistic Style Rooted in Precision
Suha describes her style as grounded in precision and high craftsmanship. This has earned her the trust of clients even within Türkiye itself, where this art form originated. She believes this distinction is no accident, but the result of genuine passion for intricate details in every layer.
Art That Touches the Heart
She recounts that some clients have shared how gazing upon her pieces provides psychological comfort, alleviating feelings of sadness or depression. For Suha, this is the greatest reward an artist can receive.
Three-Dimensional Art and the Future of Visual Imagery
Three-Dimensional Art and the Future of Visual Imagery
Suha believes three-dimensional art is already reshaping the future of visual expression, adding a tactile dimension that flat art cannot offer.
When viewers engage with her work, they feel drawn into the piece, interacting with it both visually and emotionally.
The Role of Visual Art in Media and Journalism
In today’s fast-paced digital era, the young artist emphasizes that digital and visual art have become essential in media and journalism. They possess a powerful ability to transform information into an engaging visual experience, conveying messages quickly and clearly.
When asked which work is closest to her heart, Suha says she cannot choose a single piece. Each carries a fragment of her soul and passion; every new creation becomes the dearest in that moment.
New Projects Currently Underway
Suha is presently working on two concurrent projects; Three hospitality serving trays featuring an entirely new design never before presented.
Three Turkish caftan themed artworks; one is completed, and she is applying final touches before proceeding with the others.
A Message to Young People
She offers clear advice to youth aspiring to enter the field of three-dimensional art: choose the path you love, for passion is the sole fuel that grants the patience to persist in meticulous and demanding work.
A Dream That Transcends Borders
Suha envisions an artistic future as vibrant and colorful as her creations. She dreams of her works carrying a global signature, with her name becoming synonymous with this art form. She also aspires to one day establish an institute dedicated to teaching this craft, passing her expertise to future generations.
Iman Alzuheiri/Mazen
