BIO:
Margieanne Moskowitz is known around the globe for her hand cut silhouettes using only a pair of scissors freehand. The "Shadow Lady" and "M&M" are her nicknames. This is a lost art. She is sought out around the world for her detailed stunning cuttings. She is also known for her silly and realistic watercolor paintings. Margieanne has had her art sold and displayed in galleries in Florida and Arizona, as well as on the net in Isreal and Arizona by request. She worked at Walt Disney World as their silhouette artist. She is a native of Florida. Margieanne resides with her husband and two beloved cats in Arizona. She has a strong faith in God, and gives Him all the glory for her talents.
Â
SILHOUETTE HISTORY:
The art of cutting a silhouette started in the middle of the 18th century. The very wealthy people had their portraits done in oil.  However the poor people used the "shadow artist."  These peddlers would do their portrait for a bed or a meal.  They had the person sit near a candle or an oil lamp. Their shadow would be cast upon a wood plank or stiff cloth. The artists would then fill it in with charcoal from the fire pit.
By the 1800's, paper was plentiful. As a result, the artist would look at the person's side view and they would cut out the portrait with a pair of scissors freehand.
Once the camera was invented, it was a blow to this form or art.  The name silhouette was given in honor of Etienne D. Silhouette. He was a tax collector in France. He started cutting as a hobby to keep the art going.
Today, the art of scissor cutting is very rare. It is a lost unique art. There are only about 50 scissor cutting artists left in the entire world. However, there doesn't seem to be any that cut with the detail, or as many subjects as Margieanne does.
The other form of cutting a silhouette is with a sharp knife. The artist will sketch out the subject, pile up to 50 sheets of paper, and then cut it out. It is not rare like using a scissor.
Scissor cutting requires a lot of patience, skill, and coordination. It has become a collector's item. So cherish your cuttings, as they are appreciating in value more and more.
If you are interested in seeing this work, copy and paste:
recommend
Facebook
Twitter
bookmark 
print
Comments: 27
It is one of the finest pieces of artwork I have ever layed eyes on. The pics on the internet in no way do the up close and personal Justice. She is truly a one of a kind artist.
I proudly own a piece of her work and I would encourage anyone who would be interested to check out the website that she has provided.
Keep up the great work M&M!
in such a rare art form as hand cut silhouettes.
Sandy, thank you very much too. I'm glad you enjoyed the info about silhouetting.