“I combine carefully created paper cut-outs into my photos to create surprising images where the scenery is transformed into something else. I developed this style through my love of stop-motion animations.”
Rich McCor: Crafting a Unique Photographic Voice
Rich McCor, widely known as Paperboyo, is far from your average photographer. His journey into the world of photography wasn’t paved by traditional routes but evolved from a blend of passion and curiosity. McCor’s distinctive style, where he intricately combines paper cut-outs with photography to transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary visions, has its roots in his love for stop-motion animations. This love affair with paper cut-outs began in a studio but soon blossomed in the bustling streets of London. Since 2015, McCor’s artistic approach has been a testament to his belief in constant evolution and experimentation. His journey from creating animations to capturing the world through his lens is a story of embracing change and seeking new horizons in creativity.
The genesis of McCor’s career as an artist was fueled by a desire to break free from the constraints he experienced in the television and advertising industries. Seeking a creative outlet, he turned to photography, initially capturing the landscapes of London. Frustrated with his inability to emulate the work of more accomplished photographers, McCor was driven to forge his own path. This determination led him to the streets of London, where every evening and weekend became an opportunity for exploration and learning. It was in this process of discovery and relentless pursuit of creativity that McCor’s unique style was born. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance and the willingness to view the world through a different lens.
The Artistic Panorama of Rich McCor
Rich McCor’s artistic style is a captivating dance between photography and paper art, where architecture plays a leading role. His fascination with architectural designs and patterns is not just about capturing the grandeur of landmarks but about revealing the unnoticed beauty in familiar structures. McCor’s work is a continuous quest to elicit a sense of wonder and surprise in his audience. By integrating his playful paper cut-outs with iconic buildings, he often succeeds in making people see the world in a new light. His artistry is not about grand themes or political statements; rather, it’s about bringing a moment of joy and light-heartedness to a world often weighed down by heavier issues.
In his creative process, McCor steers clear of political themes, preferring to keep his art as a form of escapism. This approach reflects his understanding of the role of art in society – not just as a medium for commentary but also as a source of relief and happiness. The essence of McCor’s work lies in its ability to transform the mundane into the magical, turning a simple walk around the city into an adventure of discovery. Each piece he creates is a conversation starter, inviting viewers to look beyond the obvious and appreciate the whimsical interplay between reality and imagination.
Rich McCor: The Essence of Time and Space in Creativity
In the artistic realm of Rich McCor, time is the most crucial element. This valuable resource allows him to delve into various concepts, rigorously experimenting until he either discards them or molds them into something exceptional. McCor’s creative philosophy is anchored in optimism and playfulness, believing firmly in the potential of every idea. This mindset, “This could work” versus “This is rubbish,” has been a cornerstone of his career, fostering a robust self-belief and an enduring commitment to innovation. Such an approach not only demonstrates McCor’s resilience as an artist but also highlights the importance of patience and perseverance in the creative process.
The workspace of McCor, though not bound by four walls, is an environment where distractions are managed with a singular focus on the creative task at hand. This discipline in managing distractions is perhaps what allows McCor to immerse himself so deeply in his work, ensuring that each piece receives the attention and time it deserves. The time-intensive nature of his art, from conceptualizing ideas to bringing them to life, underscores the dedication and passion McCor has for his craft. It’s this dedication that enables him to continuously push the boundaries of his art, ensuring that each piece is not just a photograph but a story waiting to be told.
Inspirations and Aspirations: The Path Forward for Paperboyo
The artistic journey of Rich McCor is heavily influenced by his childhood memories of watching Wallace and Gromit. The tangible imperfections and human touches in these animations left a profound impact on him, guiding his preference for art that showcases the human element. This influence is evident in McCor’s choice to include his hands in his photos, a subtle yet powerful reminder of the artist’s presence and involvement in the creation of each piece. His admiration for Christoph Niemann further shapes his creative outlook, embracing the idea that there are no rigid rules in creativity and that art can be as whimsical and unbound as one’s imagination allows.
Looking to the future, McCor dreams of transcending the digital boundaries of social media to create physical, interactive art installations. He envisions a series of sculptures based on his cut-outs, inviting people to engage with his art in a tangible way and create their own forced perspective illusions. This aspiration reflects McCor’s desire to connect with his audience on a more personal level, offering them not just a visual experience but an opportunity to actively participate in the creative process. As McCor continues to evolve and explore new avenues, his journey remains a compelling narrative of innovation, inspiration, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression.
