Layered Paper, Familiar Forms Made New

Julita Elbe was born and raised in Warsaw, Poland. After studying design at Münster University of Applied Sciences, she built a career as a designer while continuing to develop her own artwork.

It begins with a photograph

Julita’s introduction to art came through an easel her father gave her as a child. A photographer himself, he took her to galleries, shared time with her taking photographs and drawing, and read books about art and artists with her. He taught her the fundamentals of photography and how to think about composition.

Her own photographs remain the starting point for her work. She looks closely at details in nature and architecture that can become so familiar they go unnoticed. Taking shapes and lines out of their original surroundings, she gives them a new form, inviting attention to elements that are easily overlooked.

Cutting, layering and working with paper

Julita uses papers with different textures, including tissue paper and handmade cotton paper. She carefully cuts and layers thin sheets, combining them with acrylic paint to build her compositions.

The feel and structure of each paper, along with the way colour appears, play an important part in the process. She is drawn to the variety of the materials and to the unexpected results that emerge from the imperfections of working by hand. These physical collages also serve as the basis for her digital work.

Towards simpler forms

Of the many styles that inspire her, the Bauhaus is her favourite, with its clean lines and regular patterns. She is also drawn to Isamu Noguchi’s organic, abstract forms and his approach to bringing traditional and modern elements together.

Over the years, her work has become increasingly minimal. Her focus is on reducing forms and creating simple, clearly defined images. In a world crowded with information, she hopes her work can offer the viewer a brief moment of calm.

Life and work in Münster

Julita’s interest in nature and architecture also connects with the city she calls home. Münster is a cathedral city with abundant nature, numerous museums and galleries, and a lively cycling and student culture. Its surroundings continue to influence her work.

Away from making art, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their two sons. When she has time to herself, she practises yoga.

Through a collaboration with a Danish interiors brand, selected works have also been adapted for acoustic panels.