I never know what to do with the paper I come home with from the Japanese Paper Shop, but Katy puts her pretty paper finds to good use! The result is very sweet, very detailed japanese inspired collage. (Perfect for Valentine's day, if you celebrate it!)

Katy Gromball
http://katygromball.blogspot.com/
Pont-a-mousson, rainy East of France

Describe your work in 10 words or less.

Musical, craft, meticulous, warm.

What do you like to work with (magazines, photographs, vintage)? Be specific!

Music is always present in my work. Then, I use precious Japanese papers, recycled papers... sometimes threads and vintage materials (old wallpapers, illustrations from the 1950s - as in the 'pochi' series...)

How long have you been creating collages and what made you start?

I've been cutting and sticking papers since... maybe 15 years or so... I've no idea of why I started creating collages, maybe I try to create a beautiful and peacful place. I've tried other techniques but I guess I felt closer to paper and thread than paint.

Are you solely an artist, or do you work in another profession?

I am a artisan, a 'craftswoman'. But I have to work in a school for the moment, until I am able to live on my art.

Do you have any formal art training?

Not really. I attended  a few art classes at school, but it was a bit boring so I decided to practice on my own.

Explain your favourite techniques.

I have actually just one way to work. I choose a song and make a lot of sketches. I go over my materials and pick some. Once everything is gathered, I can start to transcribe what is in my head.

Describe your favourite piece ever created.

I think I haven't made it yet.

What other artists do you admire?

Just to mention a few of them: Regina Spektor, Efterklang, mum, Patrick Watson, and of course Björk - who is the most accomplished artist to me - I'm also very fond of the Ai Yamaguchi's work.

Thanks Katy!