Mariapaola McGurk has specialised in paper cutting for the last twelve years. Paper cutting is an art form dating back to the 4th Century after the invention of paper by the Chinese. It is an artform that can be found in many countries as a traditional expression that celebrates religion and culture. Given that paper cutting is a very uncommon practice within South Africa, McGurk has had to learn to develop the skill without guidance. This has led to a very contemporary interpretation of a traditional artform that has conveyed her intertwining concepts of light and shadow, and simplicity and complexity.