Laurie Skantzos

(b 1966, Canada. Lives and works in Guelph)

Skantzos' recent works on paper are exploratory in nature and allow for a form of free expression that carries through to her wooden wall sculptures. She sees these two practices as complimentary; and as a means of rehearsing shape and colour combinations; which then translate into palette choices for plywood forms. Her use of hand-cut templates to create patterns also leads to unplanned transfers and residues; which also make their way into compositions. “This practice of working with these relatively intimate paintings has really carried me through the past year;” she says. “I can lose myself in the exploration; and the elicited feelings of hope and joy allow for much needed balance in my life.”