Today we'll meet Ana Teresa Fernandes, the Portuguese paper artist and graphic designer behind the brand Ana Papercut. Many of her detailed designs capture small moments that depict childhood joy.
Background and Discovery
Ana, tell us about yourself... where you grew up, your formal art education, if any, and what led you to paper cutting.
I grew up in Oporto, in the north of Portugal, where I continue to live and create. I hold a degree in Graphic Design from the Fine Arts Faculty in Oporto. My journey with paper cutting began when I discovered the inspiring works of artists such as Elsa Mora and Rob Ryan online.
That curiosity led me to experiment on my own, and along the way I learned about the beautiful traditions of paper cutting in different cultures around the world. Later, I discovered that Hans Christian Andersen used the papercut technique to tell his stories.
Inspiration and Process
What is it about paper cutting that appeals to you?
What I love most is the simplicity of the craft: with just paper, scissors, and a knife, I can transform something so humble into something poetic. I’m self-taught in the papercutting technique, having learned through videos, tutorials, and observing the processes of other artists — and over time, I developed my own way of working with paper.
My goal with Ana Papercut is to tell stories with paper that celebrate the small moments of life. My themes are inspired by family, friendship, human relationships, nature, and positive thoughts. This is why my illustrations are often chosen as gifts — to express gratitude and love.
Custom Artwork
Tell us about your process.
I first started cutting white paper, but with time I introduced colored papers, gradually adding layers and more complexity to create richer, more intricate compositions. Through Ana Papercut, I create customized, framed illustrations from an existing template model.
In these cases, I can personalize small elements or change the background of an illustration. Although the original design is the same, each piece becomes unique because it is handmade — no two illustrations are ever exactly alike.
Do you also do completely custom designs?
Yes, I also create more complex, one-of-a-kind pieces, exploring intricate designs and compositions. These works reflect my personal reflections and narratives. More recently, I’ve begun working with the paper scraps that remain from my cutting process, transforming them into illustrations rich in textures and layers, adding a new dimension and depth to my work.
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| This papercut is included in Ana's Women Bird series that "represents the ability to transform in the face of change and fly to other destinations." |
Are your papercuts always framed as wall art?
In the past, I explored a project, Simple Stories to Wear, where I transformed my papercut illustrations into sterling silver jewelry, experimenting with new ways to bring my designs into everyday life. Although the project is currently on hold, it remains an inspiring part of my creative journey.
Is paper cutting your full-time profession?
Alongside my artistic practice, I also work in the marketing field, which gives me a creative perspective and helps me share my art in new ways.
Future Plans
What's ahead for you, regarding paper cutting?
In the future, I would like to illustrate a book using the papercut technique that studies the different traditions of paper cutting from around the world. Each paper cutting will tell a little story.
Ana's website is Ana Papercut. You'll find her on Instagram and Facebook. I hope her delicate designs have brought a smile to your face.
