Interview with sculptural artist Maria Lintott

Maria Lintott works from her studio in Hertfordshire, making precise sculptural paper cuts to create dynamic geometric mixed media artworks. Often featuring the natural world, she handstitches three dimensional birds, butterflies, dragonflies and botanical elements. Maria has been developing this technique, designing each element and using repetition to capture a sense of rhythm and movement in a hope to draw the person in and create a sense of calm. 

Here we chat with Maria about her journey so far…

Can you tell us your backstory and how you got into the art world?

I have always been drawn to art & three dimensional design. From a young age I relished drawing, collecting and making. After school I went onto study Ceramic Design at Central Saint Martin’s gaining a 1st Class Degree. I then went onto study my Masters at the Royal College of Art in Ceramics and Glass.

After graduating, I set up my ceramic studio in Hertfordshire, and supplied my bone China collections to various galleries and shops in London and all over the UK. I also enjoyed freelance designing ceramics whilst my children were younger.

About 5 years ago I started exploring the sculptural potential of paper, creating intricate paper cuts and my new collections have all evolved from there!

How would you describe your signature style and technique?

I create dynamic mixed-media artworks infused with geometric precision and a fresh, clean aesthetic. I meticulously hand-stitch three-dimensional birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and botanical elements using a diverse array of papers.

Designing each element, I have developed this layering technique. Repetition is used to capture a sense of rhythm and movement.

I’m intrigued by the emotional response my pieces evoke and I aim to draw viewers into a realm of tranquillity and contemplation with each artwork.

Light and shadow play a pivotal role in enhancing the depth and dimensionality of my pieces. With carefully considered framing allowing for the manipulation of lighting to accentuate the artworks.

Can you tell us about your latest work? Where did you find inspiration and what is the story behind it?

I’m driven by a fascination for the natural world and the rich symbolism it encapsulates. I explore the notions of transformation, joy, new beginnings, hope and freedom, that dragonflies, butterflies and birds represent.

My latest piece Ripple of Radiance, was inspired by the Lilac breasted Roller bird’s vibrant colouring and I have used my paper layering technique to ripple the colours through the layers and concentric circles to capture a sense of directional movement.

Are there any exhibitions or events you are planning? 

At the moment I’m excited and busy in the studio working on a new collection for the Affordable Art Fair – Battersea this October, represented by Byard Art.

My studio is in Hertfordshire and I’m always happy to organise studio visits for a closer look at my work.  For a glimpse into my creative process and my latest creations, visit my Instagram page @marialintott_art or you can sign up to my mailing list for details of upcoming exhibitions and new collections on my website.

What is the best advice you received as an artist?

At Central Saint Martins I had some amazing tutors, who always encouraged us to enjoy sketching and the research part of our work. To allow ideas to build, develop and evolve before committing to a final piece! I still enjoy this process so much today.

Website: marialintott.co.uk

Follow Maria Lintott on Instagram @marialintott_art

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