Cutting ideas Into shape
- Stephanie handcrafts illustrations based on a process of paper cutting and collage
- She is co-founder and editor of Spring Magazine
- She sees idea-finding as the essence of her work
Long before studying graphic design or working in renowned agencies, Stephanie Wunderlich knew that creating images offered the clearest expression of her thoughts. Her illustrations always begin with a visual idea and take shape through paper cuttings, in which the scissors reveal the rhythm of her hand and the character of the tool. She sketches, cuts and shifts fragments of paper like analogue pixels until balance and contrast fall into place. The process blends intuition, analysis and the happy accidents that emerge along the way. Beyond her studio, Stephanie enjoys teaching at various universities. In her role as co-editor of Spring Magazine, she shapes the annual issue and exhibition, embracing it as a rare and welcome opportunity to devote herself to free, large-format analogue works.
Interview
- What is the story behind Spring Magazine?
- Spring is an anthology for visual storytelling run by a collective of female illustrators since 2003. Every year we sit down, pick a theme, and find our own visual approach. Side by side, the works create a playful and diverse stylistic dialogue.
- What type of paper do you work with?
- Pantone paper is my preferred choice for originals because of its beautifully light-fast colours. Since Pantone papers ceased production in 2000, every sheet that reaches my studio is rare, and I treat each one with the greatest care.
- What do you enjoy about teaching?
- Over the years I have been invited to teach illustration at several art schools. For me, the most exciting part is idea-finding, which I believe is truly at the core of what we do. I think of creativity as a muscle, so I share my methods and exercises to train it. Passing on these tools is something I deeply enjoy.
- How has your work developed since the 2000s?
- In the beginning, I focused on editorial work with tight deadlines. Today, I collaborate internationally, often supporting design agencies on concepts for their clients. These projects tend to be larger in scope and align with my schedule.
Stephanie Wunderlich is a master artisan: she began her career in 1994 and she started teaching in 2007
Works
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Stephanie Wunderlich
