Back in 2019, London-based artist artist Ben CharmanOpens in a new tab began experimenting in creating intricate paper art. As we’ve learned via My Modern MetOpens in a new tab, in just two years, Charman’s become quite the expert. Ever since, creating enchanting light boxes inspired by pop culture favorites has turned into a passion. But chief among them is modern animated classic Avatar: The Last AirbenderOpens in a new tab, which Charman has created dozens of pieces for.
Avatar: The Last Airbender (or ATLA for short) has only grown in esteem in recent years, making Charman’s light boxes more popular than ever. He’s even begun selling them via his own Etsy shopOpens in a new tab. But although ATLA is his primary pop culture inspiration of choice, there are several other pieces focusing on Star Wars, Pokémon, Stranger Things, Harry Potter, and even Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. You can check out some of Charman’s incredible work right here.
Ben Charman
In this time-lapse video posted to his Instagram, you can see all the work that went into creating this piece showcasing Appa, Aang’s loyal and lovable sky bison. Can we hear a “Yip YipOpens in a new tab?”
Another papercraft piece shows Aang in the Southern Air Temple, staring off into the sky with Appa flying by. You can purchase one of these in Charman’s online store for $80.16Opens in a new tab.
Charman using different colors to illustrate different moods within the Avatar universe is his signature.
These brief clips show you a 360 degree rotation of several light boxes featuring Ang and friendsOpens in a new tab. It really shows off the amount of layers that really go into making just one of these.
Another famous ATLA scene featuring Koh, the Face StealerOpens in a new tab.
Prince Zuko burns brightly in this piece, doing the Fire Nation proud.
In the world of Star Wars, Charman crafts pieces inspired by serious moments for both Luke and Rey SkywalkerOpens in a new tab. Not to mention a piece dedicated to our favorite Mandalorian and his little buddy, Grogu.
Ben Charman
From the galaxy far, far away to the Upside DownOpens in a new tab, Charman also finds inspiration in the universe of Stranger Things.
This Pokémon inspiredOpens in a new tab piece featuring Charmander was created using over 13 layers of paper.
To see more of Charman’s incredible work, head over to Charman’s Instagram accountOpens in a new tab, and his Etsy shopOpens in a new tab.
