Meet Nicole Grosjean of Paper Fauna in Wheat Ridge

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Grosjean.

Nicole, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I graduated with a BFA in Illustration from the Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design in Denver, CO, in 2008. I studied digital illustration and was interested in the concept art industry. However, I began working for a ceramic artist after graduation and fell in love with handmade work. I combined my passion for illustration, convenience of working in layers in Photoshop, and detailed craftsmanship to make my first paper illustrations.

Over the years, my style and techniques have evolved and matured into even more elaborate work. Some artworks can have upwards of 1,500 individual pieces of paper, all hand-cut. However, I have also incorporated laser and die-cutting processes to create effects I cannot do by hand, such as cutting 4000 identical scales for a dragon design. I have also begun adding LED light elements to many pieces, that run on battery packs inside the frame.

I have been showing my work at local and national galleries for several years now. I attend conventions and art shows where I sell originals, jewelry, and prints. Also, I have had several pieces published in art book competitions.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I am very new to the industry and still finding my way, which is definitely challenging. Building an audience and social media following is a constant struggle, as well as converting followers to buyers. Right now, I am really focusing on just getting my work seen.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Paper Fauna – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I officially started Paper Fauna about three years ago. The business focuses on my artwork and exhibiting that work nationally. I also run a small Etsy shop with prints and jewelry featuring my art. I try to be different in the sort of paper art I make, combining elements I have not seen together before.

So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am hoping to travel to more shows and conventions nationally, as well as exhibiting my work internationally. Now that I am comfortable with making my work, I want to push the scope and complexity of it too. I also have some ideas for a possible Kickstarter campaign I’d like to launch in the next few years.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.paperfauna.com
• Email: nicole@paperfauna.com
• Instagram: @nicolegrosjean
• Facebook: @paperfauna
• Twitter: @NLGrosjean

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