In the Japanese language the word “Kami“, or “paper”, also means “god”, “divinity” and “spirit”.

Ayumi Shibata designs intricate landscapes using layers of white paper. Some of her sculptures are miniature, whereas others are large-scale art installations, and all are brought to life with the play of light and shadow.

Shibata’s ethereal landscapes envision a world in which humans and natural forms coexist. The works feature architectural domes, cave-like forests, and swirling suns hovering over tree-filled cities. These picturesque places aren’t based on a particular location, but what the artist hopes and believes the future of the planet could look like.

“Invisible ‘Kami’ spirits dwell in various objects and events, places, as well as in our houses and in our bodies,” she says. “I use my technique to express my thankfulness to the Kami spirits for having been born in this life. Each piece of paper I cut is a prayer.”