Paper quilling (I quill (roll, curl, twist, shape, glue) strips of paper to create wall art, jewelry, ornaments and sculpture. Paper strips (most of which are purchased already pre-cut) are “threaded” through a slotted tool, and then curled into a coil, which is then manipulated to be loose or tight, depending on what is needed for the design. I use a clear tacky glue to fasten the pieces together. I then incorporate beads and other found objects into each piece.

12" x 15"

Kathy Canfield Shepard is a quilling/mixed media artist residing in the Bay Area of California. She is also a watercolor artist, graphic designer. and professional French hornist. She holds certification from Pratt Institute, and degrees in music from University of Michigan and The Juilliard School. Her quilled paper/mixed media work was seen in the 2023 de Young Open as well as other shows.

I have been an artist for most of my life, working in a variety of mediums, most recently, paper quilling, which I first discovered when I was seven years old. Over the next few years, I created simple designs and ornaments for family and friends. In recent years, I’ve rediscovered the art form and have stretched the boundaries of traditional techniques to create intricate works of art.