Helmeted hornbill 盔犀鳥

Paper installation

Commissioned by Spirit of Sumatra exhibition in 2024

Artwork Description

This life-sized paper helmeted hornbill is crafted from single sheets of paper. Each feather is precisely cut and layered with intricate detail. Although this species may not align with traditional standards of beauty, the unique casque of the helmeted hornbill has made it a target for hunters, who prize it for use in jewelry and art. Tragically, most people have never even heard of the helmeted hornbill, and so their survival crisis often goes unnoticed.

In the wild, the life journey of a female helmeted hornbill is marked by a profound dedication to her family. After mating, she retreats into the nest cavity to lay a single egg and seals the entrance with a plaster made from regurgitated fruit pulp and feces, leaving only a small opening through which the male provides food. For the next five months, from incubation to fledging, the female remains secluded inside, completely dependent on the male. If the male falls victim to hunters, both the female and her chick face starvation, highlighting their fragile existence.

The Artist

Hong Kong paper artist Pauline Yau is renowned for her exquisitely detailed hand-cut paper sculptures, capturing the beauty and intricacy of the natural world. 

With a background in fine arts, she specializes in creating lifelike botanical and animal sculptures, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary artistry. 

Pauline’s work often highlights endangered species and environmental conservation, inviting viewers to reflect on the fragility and preciousness of nature. Through paper—a simple yet expressive medium—she transforms ordinary material into powerful visual narratives, celebrating life, nature, and the importance of conservation.

IG: @paulineyau71