Artist Statement of Ilena Uplekar
My artwork is an outward expression of my inner love for the spiritual, philosophical, and wholesome aspects of nature, environments, and people. I explore these themes using a variety of mediums, including oils, mixed media, and glass, often combining them into abstract and geometric forms. The resulting artwork is highly conceptual, and features a balance of color, texture, and form. From the beginning, my creations have been expressions of a personal connection with nature and environment. I began my artistic journey under the guidance of a mentor in India, and my first creations were in charcoal and ceramics. I've since found oils, glass, and mixed media to be my mediums of choice, and I particularly enjoy working with metallic textures. I attempt to blend the simple beauty of forms found in nature with the complexity of abstract and geometric shapes into visual art pieces. This juxtaposition mirrors the relationship that exists between man and nature. Many things inspire me: a dramatic sunset over the bay, an exotic flower in brilliant bloom, meeting someone from another culture. I could go on! As I further my artistic education and move towards a career in art and design, I will bring with me certain environmental and nature-sustainable sensibilities, allowing me to create spaces that exist in perfect harmony. EDUCATION- MBA- Marketing Management BS- Zoology- SUNY-Albany, NY SHOWINGS – Pacific Art league- 2019, Abstract-Group Show La macina Di San Cresci- Greve, Chianti, Italy- Artist in Residence –August & September 2018. Pacific Art League- Group Show- January-2018 Art Resident- Italy- April 2018 Pacific Art league- Group Show Submission- 2017,Palo Alto, CA. Miami River Art Fair- Nina Torres Gallery- December 2015 Pacific art league- mixed media- September 2015-Anniversary show. ART BCN-Casa Battlo- Barcelona, December 12,13 -2014 Manor house- Belmont, Ca-2014- Group show- Resident Artist. Manor House- Belmont, Ca. –Group Show- 2013 National Art Gallery of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia, 2011-Group show [Grant by the National Art Council] Sunnyvale Art gallery, Sunnyvale, CA, 2010- Solo show Westin hotel, SF, Design Guild, 2006- Group Show. YWCA Gallery, India, 2005- Group Show. Albright Knox emerging Artists, Buffalo, NY-2001- Group Show.
