bio/artist statement

Statement

Textured, layered surfaces speak of the passage of time, transformation and survival; a sense of whimsy brings importance to surviving tragic events in life. Personal symbols used in the work are not the familiar emblems of mainstream iconography, but intensely personal, private, obscure and ambiguous references. The imagery depicts interpretation of more than specific cultures -- it represents universal human experiences; what makes us human: memory, the body as a corporeal vessel, mark-making, ephemeral, ritual and honouring.

The central images of the work are applied to handmade paper using a reverse batik/encaustic technique I developed. They are then mounted to wooden panels painted with acrylics and mediums. The thick gloss used to finish the work acts as a separator between the viewer and the work, much like how our current society separates itself from each other through the loss of ritual, traditions and a focus on consumerism.

Bio

Since arriving in Canada in 1987 I have concentrated on furthering my interdisciplinary arts education with studies through the Toronto Board of Education, workshops with local and international artists and as a graduate of the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD). I graduated from OCAD as an honours student in 1999 and was awarded both the Governor General’s Medal and the Ontario College of Art and Design Medal from the Printmaking Department. During my studies I focused on fibre arts (papermaking, surface design, weaving), book arts and sculpture.

Since 2001 I have focused on creating fine art that is sold through select galleries and juried public art shows.

I have also been teaching workshops and given demonstrations through art material stores, the Scarborough Arts Guild and the Society of Canadian Artists. I have maintained an art studio in downtown Toronto since 1997.
Work is in private collections in Canada, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Greece, Spain, and the United States.

Recognition