Hearts and Trees

• Main Author: Woznica, Hilary
• Format: Others
• Published: VCU Scholars Compass 2012
• Online Access: http://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/etd/306; http://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1305&context=etd

The process of creating art is a visceral experience for me. Each piece is born from an inherent need to visually express and understand my experiences and emotions. I use a variety of materials to create mixed media sculptures, books, and two-dimensional images. Maps and trees are the common motifs and metaphors found in my work. I paint on the surface of maps to reference significant locations in my journey of personal growth. I incorporate found sticks and branches in my sculptures and paint images of trees to communicate my reverence for nature. I often use the tree as a symbol for myself. I create images and detail with careful control of my media. I use pliers to manipulate wire into precisely formed curls around stones and wood. I apply short, repeated strokes with pen or paint on paper, or with a ceramic tool on a clay surface. I use this repetition of marks to create visual rhythm and a sense of movement which gives energy to otherwise simple images. I use a limited color palette to help maintain visual clarity of the image.