Layers of Life - Stephanie Joe

Stephanie Joe Artist

The Artist

Stephanie Joe is a biologist at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Her desire to share her experience, perception and enthusiasm for native Hawaiian flora and fauna drives her creativity. With a Master’s Degree in Evolution, Ecology and Conservation Biology and a passion for the natural world, she uses her scientific expertise to capture the intricate details of plants, birds, insects, and snails endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Her work combines aesthetic allure with biological precision, resonating with both casual art enthusiasts and scientific specialists. She has created pieces for the Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit (PCSU) and The Honolulu Board of Water Supply.

What makes her creations so singular and unusual is her innovative use of paper. She meticulously cuts, foils and layers paper to create subtle three-dimensional renderings of her subject, bringing each to life in vibrant, tactile detail. This method allows her to emphasize the texture and form of her subjects, creating a sense of presence that transcends traditional flat illustration.

Should any piece interest you for purchase, prices range from $20-$55 USD plus shipping. As each is created by hand after purchase, know it may take up to 30 days for you to receive your item and there will be small variations in color and cuts unique to each. Stephanie is available to create a custom design of your species upon commission. Please do not hesitate to contact her for a quote or place an order at layersoflifedesign@gmail.com.


Stephanie Joe’s portfolio is a visual reflection of her deep professional knowledge of biology and equally deep love of art. All of her work is hand-made and assembled using meticulously-cut layered pieces of paper to produce the inspiring works below. Given that her uniquely-layered work depicts a variety of plants, insects, and birds, it’s easy to see why “Layers of Life” is a most apt name for her brand.

For custom work, please visit her contact page.

hermignathus wilson

Contact Us

Find our contact details and get in touch with our team for any assistance or inquiries.

 (808) 988-3157