March 2 – June 2, 2019
A contemporary take on the ancient, yet ever-evolving, art of cutting paper comprises a range of techniques and materials – from vintage maps and magazines to a leaf, car tire, and saw blade. To transform paper, rubber, metal, and more into thought-provoking artworks, artists explore varied piercing and cutting techniques that provide endless possibilities for change. Cutting into and through surfaces, artists alter items from opaque to transparent, flat to sculptural, rigid to delicate, and ordinary to exquisite. The process and precision required are laborious, technically demanding, and always astonishing. The art of paper cutting dates back thousands of years, with early artwork emerging from sixth-century China, extending worldwide by the fourteenth century, and later sparking a wave of folk art traditions. Celebrating both innovation and tradition, this exhibition features the work of more than fifty artists, representing diverse styles, techniques, and sizes from three-inch artworks to sprawling, complex installations. Cut Up/Cut Out was organized by Carrie Lederer, curator of exhibitions, Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek, California. 
Exhibition Highlights
Thanks to the members, donors, grantors, and sponsors who support the exhibition and programs. UMR is the presenting sponsor of Cut Up/Cut Out. Educational support comes from the Bell Family Charitable Foundation and WoodTrust Bank. Additional educational support comes from Bonnie Kraft. Exhibitions and programs are supported in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. Marketing supported in part by City of Wausau Room Tax funds.
