“I tell people if they can dream it up, I can make it out of paper. I love challenging myself to see how far I can push the limits of paper.”
I first was introduced to Susan Gorgas and her business, Shayna Papir through instagram. Each one of her sculptures are more intricate than the next from large scale projects like the Philadelphia Flower Show to the delicate details of a corsage. I had a chance to speak with Susan to learn more about her business and how she began.
How have you developed your career? How did you come to pick the medium of paper?
My career started as a Pinterest worthy event decor business. While researching instructions on how to make a tiny paper flower, I came across a giant paper flower. I knew I had to make it. I took one look at my completed work and knew that this was my destiny. From there I began building on my paper flower portfolio, trying out templates found online as well as creating my own unique designs. Working with paper and paper-like materials, such as fabric, card stock, and cardboard, came very natural to me. I started exploring what else I could create with them. Now my designs are not limited to paper flowers. I tell people if they can dream it up, I can make it out of paper. I love challenging myself to see how far I can push the limits of paper.
What types of events have you decorated? What would you like to decorate that you have not yet?
The most recent installation that I did was for the Philadelphia Flower Show. I love working with nonprofits and big fancy fundraisers. I have done work for the Black Tie Tailgate, the Design for Disability Gala which benefits the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, and I made wearable editorial props for the Brooklyn MRKT promotional magazine. Of course, I also create custom artwork for homes and businesses, couture headpieces, bouquets, and I’ve worked on numerous weddings and mitzvahs. However, my work is not limited to just these. I’ve created window installations for high-end retail stores such as The Vintage Twin in NYC. Some of my work has even been highlighted on TV, including a small piece I did for Ryan Serhant of Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing NY.
My ultimate aspirations are to continue to focus on retail displays and visual merchandising. I would love to work with Lilly Pulitzer, Betsey Johnson, Victoria’s Secret, and brands like Dove and Swarovski, just to name a few.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
I find inspiration from my two beautiful daughters, Mother Nature, and browsing through fashion and interior design instagram accounts. I love to take my clients ideas and transform them into something surprising and/or whimsical.
How long do your works last and how should the paper be preserved?
Items made for events are typically created for one time usage so that they are more budget friendly. My art installations are meant to last a lifetime. I advise my customers to display their pieces away from prolonged heat, moisture, and direct sunlight to preserve the color of the paper. I have had clients encase their pieces in plexiglass to prevent dust buildup. However dusting your piece is as easy as using a swifter or pressurized air duster.
Susan’s work is absolutely stunning and I am excited to share that I commissioned her for Sugarpeel. She designed a beautiful shadow box filled with the tiniest paper flowers I have ever seen! The bright white box against the vibrant colors of the flowers is just so lovely. Make sure to follow Susan on instagram to see her latest designs.
