Paper Art

Wycinanki originated in the nineteenth century when eastern European peasants could readily obtain inexpensive, colored paper to decorate their homes. They cut intricate designs with scissors and affixed the finished art to whitewashed walls and wooden beams to achieve a cheerful appearance. The complex designs are created through the repetition of symmetrical patterns and natural folk motifs. The most traditional symbols of wycinanki are the spruce tree and the rooster, a symbol of the Easter season. Designs and color schemes often convey styles derived from particular regions in Poland. All three wycinanki examples displayed here may have been made in Wisconsin as they were donated by Milwaukee women, one on behalf of Polanki, the Polish Women’s Cultural Club of Milwaukee.

This paper cutting reflects the Lowicz region of Poland , famous for its multicolored paper cuttings. Separately cut pieces are pasted atop a basic design, creating a layered effect.

A third style of wycinanki, called gwiazdy, incorporates geometric designs with circles, stars, polygons, and snowflakes.

The tree of life motif and monochromatic scheme suggest that this paper cutting represents the Kurpie or Lasek regions of Poland .