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BIO Laurie Ann first became involved in visual arts when she attended the University of Alberta where she earned a B.A. with a major in Design and Political Science. She went on to work as a graphic artist. During that time Laurie Ann began both film and performance art but was continually pulled back to the media of painting and drawing. In 1999 Laurie Ann was accepted into the B.F.A. program at the Alberta College of Art and Design and completed her degree in Drawing in 2002. She had the good fortune to complete her last year at Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design as a visiting student in Vancouver, B.C. where she is currently living and working |
Artist's Statement My work, whether representational or abstract, is about the mark making as used to define and push my perception of negative space. For me the markings are an emotional response to the scientifically definable idea of spatial relations. To achieve this I use both encaustics (an ancient technique using pigmented-molten wax) and oil paints. I am particularly attracted to these media because of their tactile quality. Encaustics allow me the luxury of becoming physical with my work. There is something empowering about making my own medium and mixing my own colours. I start with the layering of texture and colour and then I literally carve into the surface revealing a marking that is a personal iconography. Though I will also carve and scrape with my oil paints, I like to instead use this medium to explore colour relationships that push the boundaries of spatial interaction. I love the natural glow and depth that is innate to the oil medium. I have found this quality allows my play of negative and positive space to be enhanced. |