This, my dears, might be the coolest wedding backdrop I’ve ever seen. And it comes as no surprise with the crazy talented Karina Puente behind all the beauty. Today, she’s giving us a behind the scenes look at how she crafted this wedding work of art which made it’s debut at Jose Villa’s Mexico Workshop last year. See Karina’s backdrop in action for the wedding shoot and a sneak peek of the welcome dinner we’ll be sharing next week!
From Karina Puente…My name is Karina Puente and I am visual artist. Here is a glimpse into my process of creating Wedding Backdrops for the Jose Villa Photography Workshop, Mexico. My favorite part about handcrafting these pieces is the physical and conceptual process required to execute the design. My art-making always begins with a preliminary sketch to visually communicate my intention and as a result, wonderful conversations follow.
These works are fabricated in the style of Papel Picado (cut paper) and they connect me to new clients and, metaphorically, to my Mexican cultural heritage. In Mexico, Papel Picado is widely recognized and elevated as a folk art that commemorates sacred celebrations. Traditionally, tissue paper is layered, cut, and chiseled to reveal intricate designs and patterned panels. I work with knives and a material that is as whimsical as paper yet more durable and translucent. I play with dynamic scale invigorating the papercutting tradition into a contemporary practice.
My panels can run 100 feet high, flirting with light and shadow or can be installed as wedding alters, Chuppahs, or interactive design elements. My work is intended for worldwide shipment and wedding day, event, and gallery installation. My large-scale Papel Picado Backdrops invite the viewer to play and imagine possibilities. Be in touch and let’s bring your vision to life!
Photography: Jose Villa Photography | Handmade Wedding Backdrop, Papel Picado: Karina Puente | Wedding Gown: Galia Lahav | Hair And Makeup: TEAM Hair And Makeup | Calligraphy: Anne Robin | Artist Studio Photography: The Wheel Vintage Photography | Artist Studio Workspace: Impact Hub, Philadelphia | Bride’s Bouquet: Sarah Winward | Candles: Creative Candles | Creative Direction: Joel Serrato | Event Planning and Design: Laurie Arons Special Events | Fashion Stylist: Summer Watkins Ball | Graphic Design and Collateral Pieces: Amber Moon | Local Flower Sourcing: Gabriela Salazar | Photography And Style Workshop, Mexico: Jose Villa Workshops | Table Top Floral Design: Saipua | Table Top Rentals And Design: Casa De Perrin