by Fan-Chia Kung, the Editor-in-Chief

In this report on "The Paper Sculpture and the Beauty of Buddhism", we will introduce the application of paper sculpture on Buddhism, the style of Chinese paper sculpture as well as the style of western paper sculpture. For the style of western paper sculpture, we are proud to have the honor to interview with Ron Chespak, for the discussion of this special report "The Western Paper Sculpture" to share precious experience and contribution to our readers.

FAN-CHIA KUNG: Many people are moved deeply by paper sculpture, but they don't really know how it works, especially the source of the inspiration to a work. So, would you please tell us (a.) What is the source of your inspiration to a work?
RON CHESPAK: Shadows, tones and composition surround us everywhere but seeing them is most of my inspiration. I use everyday objects, I just simplify them by finding what's good in them.

FAN-CHIA KUNG: (b.) What are the most difficult procedure in making a paper sculpture?
RON CHESPAK: By far the hardest part of making a paper sculpture is defining the subject. Since everything can be looked at differently there is always something new and different to see. The choice and the ability to plan ahead for that way to look at that choice is what is difficult.

FAN-CHIA KUNG: (c.) What is the beauty or the art of paper sculpture? How does the paper sculpture come up?
RON CHESPAK: The beauty or the art of paper sculpture combines depth and composition with form and content. Light, angle and distance play an important role to the viewer.

FAN-CHIA KUNG: As you have seen the cover of our magazine, we are now toward using the paper sculpture to translate the beauty of Buddhism like that in Dung Huang Cave. According to your experience, what is your suggestion or opinion in express the abstract feeling, emotion or life of a people to the paper sculpture? What is the most important characteristic that paper sculpture can be used for the religion arts? What should a paper sculptor have for doing so?
RON CHESPAK: Although an indepth question, my answer is simple, "with all the craziness in this world, my work is one nice thing to look at".

FAN-CHIA KUNG: The material that paper sculpture use plays an important part during the work of the paper sculpture. Most of the paper used are acid-free. If we consider the environment issues, is there any progress that has been made to the material? Or, is there any technology has been added to improve the material? Can recycled paper be used for paper sculpture?
RON CHESPAK: Each original piece of art I create is hand-cut from 100% acid-free archival quality Strathmore paper and many encased in 5-sided cast acrylic box frames for preservation. I personally have not used many recycled paper since my work depends on the sleek finish of a pressed smooth paper. I also don't know if any of my work has ever been recycled. mmm.

FAN-CHIA KUNG: For a beginner, in your opinion, how to appreciate a work of paper sculpture?
RON CHESPAK: I feel that appreciating any work of art is always in the eye of and at the discrestion of the beholder but paper sculpture does require open thinking and I seem to think people tend to see more in the work than is really there. I like that.

FAN-CHIA KUNG:Your works look clear, simple and very beautiful. So, would you please introduce what specialty is in your work? What is your opinion in using the color for paper sculpture. And what is your opinion in choosing the material? How do you bring life to the work?
RON CHESPAK: My work thrives on light and reflection as you can see in the "Yellow Orchid" in your magazine. It is very graphic in nature but always natural in form. Water plays an important role in that natural appearence. Hard paper can be softened by stretching, bending and folding. Even though I use mostly stark whites the work tends to bring itself to life simplly because of the shapes. If or when I use color it is always strong and vivid and does recieve that type of impact.

FAN-CHIA KUNG: What is most important thing that you want to show for people through paper sculpture?
RON CHESPAK: The hope in my paper sculpture is that people see how simple something so complex can be. Life can imitate art.

FAN-CHIA KUNG: At the end, would you like say something for our readers?
RON CHESPAK: My only comment to your readers is to keep enjoying art, mainly because you can. (And thank you for enjoying mine). Thank you very much for the interview.

Color Photo Caption (1): "Yellow Orchid", orignal paper sculpture, 36 x 43 x 4"

Color Photo Caption (2): Ron Chespak in his Laguna Beach studio.

Color Photo Caption (3): Homepage of the Ron Chespak Gallery http://www.netcity.com/gallery.html

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