Marzena Bukowska
Artist Statement
My art emerged from natural symbiosis of performing and visual arts. I often say that painting for me is simply “acting on canvas”. In my works, I naturally use the same elements that I use on stage: energy, movement, risk taking, passion and most of all, soul bearing. Color for me is magic, it is a heartbeat, it is a breath, it is power, it is expression of feelings, moods and emotions, while lines carry thoughts, intellect, questions, mystery, drama and humor. In creating process I cherish freedom. I love challenge and I am fearless - I don’t mind falling because it serves me a springboard to something better. When painting, I often enjoy letting go of pre- planned ideas and allowing the painting to take me into completely unexpected direction. My passion thrives on constantly exploring something new; new themes, new colors, textures, techniques and styles. It seems that self-expression, though crucial, is not enough for me; in order to feel satisfaction I need my art to surprise me. My main creative forces are curiosity, instinct and imagination, but gift of painting as a whole, is the gift of God. I feel blessed to call myself an artist.
What is your background?
I grew up in Poland under the watchful eye of my artist father who believed that one day I would become an artist myself. The problem was, seeing my father’s struggles, I didn’t want to be one. As an adult I moved to the United States and spent most of my career as a theatre actress. However; I couldn’t escape my destiny. One day I reached for a brush and paint and approached an empty canvas … it was the beginning of my exciting and fulfilling artistic journey, which will continue for the rest of my life.
What does it mean to you to win Collector Art Prize?
Artists have a fragile ego: there is so much talent out there, and there is always a question present in the back of my mind: will I make it in the competitive world of art? This award is a wonderful validation that I am on the right track. I’m very grateful for it.
What do you think is the role of the art today?
We are living in the broken world with post pandemic effects, political and social divisions, and war aggression. Art is the glue that brings us together. Art is a peacemaker. Art is a healer.
What would it be if you could change one thing about art world?
More investments in emerging artists.
What are you most significant professional achievements?
Whenever art galleries hold an open call for artists, my works have been accepted to an every exhibition I submitted so far…
What do you wish to tell your viewers about your work that might not come out explicitly? What do you hope inspire with your artworks?
My works are full of hidden images, hidden massages, metaphors and symbols, sometimes they are truly prophetic. I hope that my artworks awake viewer’s imagination, invite their sense of wonder and provoke to ask questions that viewer will seek to answer.
What advice would you give to the upcoming generations of artists?
Don’t listen to any advice, unless it resonates with your own instinct. Be true to yourself, stay free and courageous - trust your guts!
In what direction would you like to see your career to go to the next five years?
Just like Picasso, I’m very superstitious, so not to jinx myself instead I will just say: “ I dream big…”
Country USA
Website www.mszbukowska
