Hari & Deepti, a husband-and-wife duo from Mumbai, have redefined storytelling through the delicate and intricate medium of paper art. Known globally for their signature backlit papercut dioramas, they breathe life into stories by intertwining light, shadow, and depth. For paper art enthusiasts, their journey is as inspiring as the works they create, serving as a testament to the boundless possibilities of paper as an artistic medium.
The beginnings of a luminescent journey
Their artistic exploration with paper and light began in 2010, an experiment that evolved into a profound creative partnership. Having lived in Denver before relocating to India in 2014, the duo immersed themselves in diverse cultures while traveling across Asia and Europe, collecting stories and inspiration. These experiences deeply influence their art, often reflecting rich narratives and imaginative worlds.
Hari & Deepti’s signature style involves intricate paper-cut designs layered in light boxes, illuminated from behind. This technique transforms their delicate paper sculptures into ethereal, multi-dimensional scenes, blurring the line between storytelling and visual art. For Hari & Deepti, paper is both a challenge and a muse. “Paper is brutal in its simplicity”, they explain. “It demands the attention of the artist while providing the softness needed to mold it into something beautiful.” A single paper sheet’s duality — minimal yet intricate, colorless yet colorful — allows them to experiment with light and shadow, creating depth and illusions that captivate their audience.
Their works evoke a sense of wonder and playfulness, yet they are also highly detailed and precise. The interplay of light transforms their paper sculptures into dynamic storytelling canvases, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of imagination.
A celebrated artistic career and a new endeavor into the world of picture books
Hari & Deepti’s artistry has been showcased at prestigious art fairs such as Context Art Fair, Select Art Fair, and Scope Art Fair, as part of Art Basel events in Miami and New York. They’ve also exhibited in renowned galleries, including Black Book Gallery in Denver and Spoke Art in San Francisco. Their international solo shows span continents, from Oslo’s Blank Space Gallery to Taiwan’s Pier 2 Art Center. Notably, their large-scale mural projects, including a 125-foot mural for New Belgium Brewing in Denver, further demonstrate their versatility.
The couple’s debut picture book, The Seekers, is a testament to their storytelling prowess. Published by Penguin Random House, the book invites readers to join an adventurous journey through whimsical landscapes illuminated by the duo’s signature paper art style. Each page brims with wonder, offering a glimpse into the intricate worlds they create in their light boxes. For those familiar with their work, The Seekers is a perfect introduction to their narrative artistry in a more intimate format.
For those who admire the versatility of paper, Hari & Deepti’s work is a masterclass in innovation and imagination. Their ability to harness light and shadow elevates their pieces from static sculptures to dynamic, story-driven experiences. Each artwork invites viewers to pause, explore, and interpret, making their creations endlessly engaging.
Images © Hari & Deepti