Since early 2016, my prints have been focused on the theme of obstacles—isolation, internal questions of existence, external projections, invisible or real barriers. Even in this contemporary, ever-growing world, where most of us interact with or are surrounded by more people than ever before, emptiness and isolation seem to thrive. My inspiration comes from many years of living in metropolises and watching city dwellers’ interactions—or lack thereof— with each other and to their environment.
I work with woodcut, wood engraving, lithography, monoprint and linocut: an ever-increasing range of print media. I am drawn to the unique aesthetics of each print technique as well as the importance on both the creative and technical aspects. I truly enjoy the entire process of printmaking—planning, preparing plates, printing, problem-solving; the craftsmanship involved. Working with my hands and being involved in every aspect of my prints allows me to feel a real connection with my work.
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About
Valerie Syposz (born Ottawa, Canada 1984) received a BFA in painting and drawing from Concordia University in 2008. In 2010, she was selected as a MEXT Japanese Government Scholar recipient and moved to Japan. She completed a MFA in printmaking from Tokyo University of the Arts in 2013. Her work is centred on traditional printmaking (e.g. lithography, linocut, wood engraving) often embellished with other techniques after printing. Valerie frequently participates in international exhibitions and artist in residence programs. She has held solo exhibitions in Canada, Japan, Korea, Australia and Norway.
