Bit Vejle’s unique style and technique have roots in the ancient tradition of paper cutting, originating in Chinese and other Asian cultures, as well as her native Denmark. Known for her meticulous technique and magical storytelling, Bit Vejle creates intricate paper cuttings that evoke both joy and contemplation.
Psaligraphy, as Bit Vejle puts it “the art of drawing or painting with scissors”, is a slow and painstaking craft that demands patience and precision. Each piece is meticulously planned and executed, with every scissor cut contributing to the final result. She was dedicated to showcasing the beauty and versatility of paper as a medium.
© Courtesy of the artist
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
I live in the Northwest of Jutland, Denmark, by the North Sea in a little town called Blokhus, just next to one of Northern Europa’s finest beaches with white sand, warm dunes and crashing waves.
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
I live only 1 km away from the ocean. The Northwest coast of Denmark is a wonderful and a peaceful place where I enjoy the contrasts between light and dark, – silence and storm. The air is so fresh, and I love to go for a walk on the beach, both on a sunny day and also on a rainy day, watching the eternal movement of the clouds. Hearing and seeing the roar of high waves gives a certain feeling of calm in my body and my soul.
©Visit Nordvestkysten
Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?
War, climate change and stressed youth are some of the challenges that cause concern. How do we best meet these concerns? We must keep high spirits! Hope can easily seem hollow, but through glimpses of optimism, we gain strength to create changes.
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?
The Danish economy is strong, and Denmark is a world leader when it comes to sustainability and handling the climate crisis.
Children and young people in Denmark generally live a good and safe life, but in some areas, there are also challenges and, the Covid-19 pandemic left its mark socially. Sadly more young people feel lonely.
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
There are wonderful farm shops in the Blokhus area. The local biodynamic and organic producers sell exciting products ranging from vegetables and honey to jam and spirits.
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
Museum for Papirkunst is a fantastic museum, known for its welcoming and warm atmosphere. It is the only museum in Scandinavia with a focuses solely on world class paper art and slow art.
When it comes to sustainable energy, the Jammerbugt municipality is a special place. We are surrounded by magnificent nature with soft dunes, steep cliffs and lush forests. The Municipality is a front runner in the green transition. New figures show that Jammerbugt Municipality is at the top in terms of producing electricity from the sun and the wind. In addition, Jammerbugt Municipality has just sent a plan regarding solar cells and biogas for consultation, as well as approving the establishment of district heating in many places.
© Visit Nordvestkysten, Museum For Papirkunst
Do you have an insider tip for a good restaurant that perhaps hardly anyone knows about yet?
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
–Museum shop of Museum for Papikunst
© From the studio.
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
I watch the daily news on both Danish, Norwegian and Swedish television every day and also read the newspaper Weekendavisen.
Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?
More than ever, we need to seek inspiration and reflection through art and culture. I live in a municipality that does not prioritize culture to a significant degree. Therefore, as a mayor, I would immediately increase support for cultural projects – big time!
©Visit Nordvestkysten
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constraints – which one would you choose?
If I was as rich as a Croesus, I would build an extraordinarily beautiful house as close to the sea as possible.
© Courtesy of the artist
