Capturing History: The Glessner House Paper Portrait

August 22, 2021

Capturing History: The Glessner House Paper Portrait

In the realm of art, every creation is an exploration of creativity and a journey of growth. One such journey led me to create a remarkable paper portrait of a historical gem in Chicago, the iconic Glessner House. This venture into the world of architectural art wasn’t my first, but it certainly stands as a testament to the captivating blend of history, creativity, and craftsmanship that defines my approach to art. Read on to learn more about the Glessner House paper portrait adventure.

The Joy of House Portraits

Before the Glessner House, I had the privilege of creating paper portraits of other buildings. From my mother’s house to my great-grandmother’s home and the Bunker Hill Church, these pieces allowed me to channel my artistic skills into depicting structures with a unique medium. House portraits are a special genre within my portfolio—they offer a sense of permanence and a distinct focus on architecture that draws me in every time.

A Historic Challenge: Glessner House

The Glessner House presented a unique challenge and a thrilling opportunity to delve into history through art. This historical building in Chicago is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, and I wanted to capture its essence and grandeur using paper. The key challenge was to replicate the appearance of stone blocks, a feat that required creativity, experimentation, and a keen eye for detail.

Exploring Creative Depth

Creating a paper portrait of a building is more than just replication—it’s about delving into the artistic depth of architecture. The Glessner House offered a rich canvas to experiment with layering, texture, and structure. Every detail, from the intricate windows to the majestic entrance, demanded meticulous attention as I navigated the paper landscape to transform sheets into stone and windows into stories.

See more Architectural pieces here.

Work-in-Progress Images

Final Images