Cranes in Colors

A Paper Art and Quilling Collection by Simone Santamaria

Sandhill Cranes symbolize elegance, freedom, and harmony with nature. In Florida, they are a constant presence, gracefully navigating landscapes and leaving a lasting impression. Cranes in Colors was inspired by their serene beauty and a special moment when a pair of cranes left their footprints in the fresh concrete of my home, an unexpected gift that became the heart of this collection.

Each piece in this series blends technique and emotion, using quilling and paper sculpture to capture the cranes’ movement, lightness, and vibrant energy. Through layers of paper and color, these artworks invite the viewer to experience their grace, stillness, and flight.

CIC Flying

Inspiration: The moment a crane spreads its wings to take flight—a symbol of freedom, transition, and new journeys. The vibrant colors bring joy and dynamism, inviting the viewer to see the world from a fresh perspective.
Technique: Overlapping paper layers create the illusion of movement and depth, with bold colors highlighting both the bird’s strength and its lightness.
Material: Paper, resin – Framed
Art Size: 36"x30"x2"

CIC Colorful

Inspiration: A striking close-up highlighting the crane’s deep, piercing gaze. The idea was to convey its serene yet attentive soul, as if observing the viewer. Vibrant colors flow smoothly across the composition, symbolizing emotions and transitions along the journey. Despite chromatic changes, the bird's path remains steady, reflecting its relentless pursuit of its destiny.
Technique: Vibrant colors and expressive curves in quilling create a dynamic mosaic full of movement and energy.
Material: Paper, acrylic, resin – Framed
Art Size: 36"x30"x2"

CIC Floral

Inspiration: A poetic interpretation of cranes as messengers of peace and hope, incorporating abstract elements that represent their thoughts and dreams in flight.
Technique: A mix of detailed quilling and precise paper cutting, with fluid shapes suggesting the softness of the air around the bird.
Material: Paper, resin – Framed
Art Size: 32"x20"x1.5"

CIC Sun

Inspiration: Capturing a crane walking through calm waters at sunset, reflecting its image like a mirror, an intimate moment of pure connection between the bird and its surroundings.
Technique: Layered paper effects simulate water and evening light, blending warm and cool tones for visual balance.
Material: Paper, foil, acrylic – Framed
Art Size: 32"x20"x3"

CIC Shadows

Inspiration: This piece was created to capture the delicate essence of cranes in their natural environment, where the shadows of the paper strips add depth and color to the bird. With soft tones and a flowing composition, it evokes the tranquility of their graceful steps.
Technique: Entirely made with quilling, this piece uses carefully placed colored strips within the white outline of the bird, creating an effect where shadows reflect the colors and bring the composition to life.
Material: Paper – Framed
Art Size: 32"x20"x2"

CIC Black Resin

Inspiration: A crane portrayed against a dark background, as if illuminated by the moonlight, evoking a sense of mystery and contemplation. Deep shadows and subtle contrasts between light and darkness highlight the bird’s timeless elegance, creating an introspective and silent atmosphere. This piece reinforces the idea that even in darkness, there is beauty and purpose, inviting the viewer to look beyond the surface.
Technique:Textured paper and geometric cuts create a striking contrast between shadows and highlights. The bird’s frame, made of paper and resin, enhances the color division, offering a sophisticated visual effect where light interacts with textures, reinforcing the depth and three-dimensionality of the composition.
Material: Paper, resin, emboss – Framed
Art Size: 24"x18"x2"

CIC Colorful Floral

Inspiration: Cranes often walk among wildflowers, creating a stunning visual spectacle where nature and the bird blend in perfect harmony.
Technique: Floral elements in quilling contrast with the crane's feather texture, creating a romantic and vibrant composition.
Material: Paper, acrylic, resin – Framed
Art Size: 24"x18"x2"

CIC Arabesques

Inspiration: Inspired by the sunrise reflecting on the cranes' feathers at dawn, this piece plays with light and shadow to highlight the harmony between sky and earth, adding subtle dynamism and natural fluidity.
Technique: Delicate paper layering combined with fine quilling creates a sense of glow and warmth.
Material: Paper, acrylic – Framed
Art Size: 18"x24"x2"