Here I am with the tools of the trade- scissors and paper. I started cutting silhouettes about 30 years ago. At the time I got interested in silhouettes, I couldn't find anyone that did them, so I taught myself the art. I had started out to be a painter and received several years of formal training in drawing and painting at Gene Tonoff's Gallery in downtown Providence. Then some more schooling at the Boston Museum School. Drawing is an important pre-requisite for cutting silhouettes, which is basically drawing with a pair of scissors. The only difference is you can't make any mistakes, as there is no erasing !
I am a Rhode Island native and worked mostly around New England at outdoor art shows, festivals, fairs etc.Years ago I began organizing fundraisers for schools, museums, libraries, historical societies and any other groups that liked the idea of offering my silhouettes to their members.
In 1999 I took a break and moved to Tokyo to cut silhouettes at Disneyland. After that I moved to Maui for two years to recuperate from the break ! Disneyland was exhausting but living in Japan for a year and a half was a great experience. I spent five years in NY, and have recently moved back to Wakefield, Rhode Island. I have two grownup children, and three grandchildren. My daughter Andrea Peitsch has inherited the ability to cut silhouettes, now works both with me and at her own events. Madeline, my oldest grandchild picked up the scissors one Christmas and cut freehand silhouettes of her mother and Andrea. Quite impressive I think for an 9 year olds very first attempt. Here they are to the right. Someone has to keep this incredible artform alive and I am happy that I have been able to pass on the knowledge to some very capable hands.
Deborah O'Connor
I am a Rhode Island native and worked mostly around New England at outdoor art shows, festivals, fairs etc.Years ago I began organizing fundraisers for schools, museums, libraries, historical societies and any other groups that liked the idea of offering my silhouettes to their members.
In 1999 I took a break and moved to Tokyo to cut silhouettes at Disneyland. After that I moved to Maui for two years to recuperate from the break ! Disneyland was exhausting but living in Japan for a year and a half was a great experience. I spent five years in NY, and have recently moved back to Wakefield, Rhode Island. I have two grownup children, and three grandchildren. My daughter Andrea Peitsch has inherited the ability to cut silhouettes, now works both with me and at her own events. Madeline, my oldest grandchild picked up the scissors one Christmas and cut freehand silhouettes of her mother and Andrea. Quite impressive I think for an 9 year olds very first attempt. Here they are to the right. Someone has to keep this incredible artform alive and I am happy that I have been able to pass on the knowledge to some very capable hands.
Deborah O'Connor
About Me -
