Seven Years of Craft: Diana Beltrán Herrera Paper Sculptures Bring Nature to Life

One hundred birds born from simple paper. Colombian artist Diana Beltrán Herrera has spent the last 7 years transforming thin sheets of paper into incredibly detailed 3D sculptures that mimic the biodiversity of our planet. Her collection, which now exceeds 100 pieces, captures the delicate essence of avian life with breathtaking precision.

Diana Beltrán Herrera Paper Sculptures: From Pixels to Paper

Herrera's creative process is a bridge between the digital and the physical. She begins by researching species and creating digital sketches in Adobe Illustrator. These blueprints guide her as she meticulously cuts, paints, and assembles fragments of paper. Having lived in Helsinki, she was inspired by the respectful interaction between humans and urban nature. Depending on the complexity, a single bird can take anywhere from one week to one month to complete.

Sustainability and Ethical Awareness

With a background in industrial design and fine arts, Herrera views paper as a material with limitless potential. She often uses recycled materials, challenging the idea that beauty requires expensive resources. Beyond the aesthetic look of her work, she aims to highlight the illegal wildlife trade. Her portfolio has expanded beyond birds to include botanical elements and fruit, all serving as reminders of the natural world we must protect.