Embrace of Contrast 09 (2023) Schilderij door Tanya Williams

My journey beginning as a self-taught artist has been one of discovery, inspiration, and transformation. I was born and raised in South Africa, a diverse country that stimulates inspiration. Influences stem from a young age, always drawn to the beauty of nature and colours. My Dutch grandmother was the only artist in my family. Being self-taught, I admired her artistic ability and creativity, and I especially loved the single mural in her house.

Even though my heart cherishes art and creativity, my career aspirations have always been directed toward science and medicine, Thus, I have no art awards or exhibitions to date. The option of art as a high school subject (without the history lessons), came too late but I preferred not having the pressure of short deadlines. Perfectionism was always quite cumbersome. And of course, there was no internet resource for enhancement in those early days. Sharing my drawings and paintings, or even the process of creating them, always felt painfully personal. In 2014 I joined a lively, casual art class which helped to improve my confidence and skills. The like-minded companionship of others was enriching and I will always treasure those connections.

Most notable in my art is a gentle softness. Over time, I still explore, and using oil paint is still a future objective. With stillness, I am able to practice art at my best. In art, I can discover a valuable quiet for my anxious mind. Here, I want to serve as a catalyst for modifying perspectives and disseminating constructive change. My artistic endeavors frequently take me back to nature, or to techniques that direct to inner tranquillity.

My family and I recently started a new chapter by moving to Portugal, which gives rise to new possibilities and inspirations. Adaptation, new struggles, and a new baby currently consume much of our time. But our new haven is where my art journey is taking new strides.

Currently, an important series was inspired by my own experience with cancer. At 34 years old, with a 3 year old child, I suddenly had breast cancer with an infamous reputation. This project involves a more visceral process. Physical touch. Feeling the paint on my skin and producing unique prints of a scar. This work acknowledges contradictions and looks for beauty within the hardships. It would be thrilling for this project to become celebrated and notable, however big or small.

• Nationaliteit: ZUID-AFRIKA
• Geboortedatum : 1984
• Artistieke domeinen:
• Groepen: Hedendaagse Zuid-Afrikaanse Kunstenaars