Have you ever stumbled upon an art form so unique and captivating that it leaves you mesmerized? That’s the magic of CRIZU’s paper-folded book sculptures. Imagine vintage books transformed into stunning, modern art pieces, their pages carefully folded to create intricate designs that are both delicate and bold. It’s a beautiful blend of old-world charm and contemporary aesthetics, and in this post, we’ll delve into the world of CRIZU and the artist behind these amazing creations.
A Journey of Transforming Books into Art: Meet Anna Bonino of CRIZU
The story of CRIZU began serendipitously, born from a mother-daughter duo’s shared love for art and a touch of inspiration. Anna Bonino, the artist behind CRIZU, fondly recalls how it all started.
“The idea of transforming books into sculptures came about by chance,” Anna shares. “We were browsing in a shop in New York City and saw a book with cuts that created a beautiful design. We loved it and tried to replicate the effect with our own books, but we didn’t dare cut them. So, we began to fold!”
And thus, CRIZU was born.
Today, CRIZU is a testament to the artistic synergy between Anna and her mother, Cristina. Each sculpture is a testament to their dedication and passion, a harmonious blend of Cristina’s initial vision and Anna’s modern design sensibilities.
“My mother is a very big part of the business,” Anna emphasizes.
Driven by a vision to breathe new life into old books, CRIZU transforms forgotten literary treasures into exquisite works of art. The process is meticulous and time-consuming, each page painstakingly folded by hand, with no cuts made to the book itself. The result? One-of-a-kind sculptures that are as unique as the books they once were.
Beyond Sculptures: Exploring the Diverse World of CRIZU
While CRIZU’s folded book sculptures are undeniably their signature creations, Anna’s artistic spirit extends beyond these captivating forms.
“I have a new line of LED lamps that feature folded books,” Anna reveals. “The trestle is made of beech wood and can be left natural or lacquered in Radiccio red.”
These lamps are a beautiful testament to Anna’s ability to seamlessly blend functionality with her artistic vision.
But that’s not all. CRIZU also boasts a limited-edition line of necklaces and earrings crafted from book pages that didn’t quite fit the criteria for sculptures. These unique pieces, dubbed “paper jewelry – barely necessary,” are a delightful fusion of unconventional materials like crystal beads, painted wooden beads, and brass.
Lantern Folded Book Sculpture by Crizu – Detail
Lantern Folded Book Sculpture by Crizu – A captivating play of light and shadow
Mural – Folded Book Wall Sculpture by Crizu
Mural – Folded Book Wall Sculpture by Crizu – A testament to the grandeur of folded book art
Trestle Lamp – Folded Book Sculpture by Crizu
Trestle Lamp – Folded Book Sculpture by Crizu – A harmonious blend of art and functionality
Crizu Folded Book Necklaces – Whimsical and elegant, wearable art at its finest
Giovannina Handmade Folded Book Earrings by Crizu
Giovannina Handmade Folded Book Earrings by Crizu – Delicate and unique, making a statement
six folded book sculptures with brass bases and finials on table
An array of folded book sculptures, each a testament to CRIZU’s artistry
Finding Inspiration: The Enduring Allure of Folded Book Art
“Books are so appealing to many of us and such a strong element of our culture, naturally, people are drawn to them,” Anna observes.
And she’s right. There’s an inherent fascination with folded book art. Perhaps it’s the way it transforms something familiar—a book—into something utterly unexpected. Or maybe it’s the intricate beauty of the designs themselves, the way the folds create patterns that draw the eye and spark the imagination. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying the captivating allure of folded book art.
Bringing CRIZU Home: Owning a Piece of Unique Artistry
Inspired by CRIZU’s unique paper-folded book sculptures? You’re not alone! These exquisite art pieces make for stunning additions to any home, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. And the best part? You can own a piece of this artistry.
Head over to the Robert Kline Art website to explore our curated collection of handcrafted gifts, including a selection of CRIZU’s finest creations. From intricately folded book sculptures to elegant lamps and unique jewelry, there’s something to captivate every art enthusiast.
Let CRIZU’s art inspire you to see the beauty in everyday objects and the endless possibilities of creativity. And as you browse our collection, remember, you’re not just buying an object, you’re bringing home a piece of art, a story, and a touch of magic.
What are your thoughts on CRIZU’s work? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this post with fellow art enthusiasts! Let’s spread the love for handcrafted beauty!