JIELA RUFEH ARTIST STATEMENT
I have always been fascinated and intrigued with the concept that there is an energy and vibration to life that permeates all things, whether it be nature, societal relationships, or various cultural beliefs. This unfolding universal energy has been an evolving interest and my work has been influenced by my study of it and its manifestation throughout different civilizations, specifically tribes of the Native American culture, mysticism, Shamanism, Yoga and Eastern philosophies.
Nature to me is an obvious place to start when dealing with these themes. We can see ourselves in the shapes of nature and in the way all its various elements affect one another, as wells our destructiveness towards nature and mankind.
I travel extensively to photograph remote natural locations to explore my concepts and dive deep into the landscapes. It becomes a meditative full body experience, where I am completely absorbed by the elements around me - the colors, the smells, the silence, the peace, the wind brushing against my skin, the warmth of the sun... all awaken my senses.
When I come back to the studio I never really know where the photograph will take my painting. For me, feelings are paramount and I try to recreate the magic I felt into mystical worlds that reflect a deeper level of awareness that is often missed in our everyday life.
Applying the encaustic medium to my photograph and oil paints- breaks the boundaries of the traditional photograph and creates a 3 dimensional quality to my work that pulls the viewer in closer. This medium also offers a sculptural feel as it offers me the versatility to scrape, carve and to embed organic material into it if needed.
Through my love and admiration of nature, I also hope to raise awareness that as a society- we need to learn to protect mother earth so all species (be it plant, animal or
human) can have a safe home and rich life on this planet.
JIELA RUFEH