Zena Stetka Howe

Artist Statement

Nothing is common if seen though the lens of an artist.Join me on my journey,as I turn common into powerful creations.

As an artist, I believe in the power of second chances. This philosophy is intricately woven into my work, where materials that once had a previous life are given a renewed purpose through art. Just as I was given a second chance in life, I seek to provide a new lease of life to these materials, transforming them into something meaningful and beautiful.

In selecting my subject matter, I rely on a tactile connection to the materials. By touching them, I can often intuitively sense what each material wants to become. Additionally, fragments of memories floating in my mind often take form as visual images, guiding the creation of future artworks.

What draws me to a particular scene is an innate sense of instinct and balance. I trust my intuition to find harmony and equilibrium in the compositions I create.

My life experiences serve as the cornerstone of my inspiration. Each piece of art is a reflection of the journey I have traveled, imbued with personal history and emotional resonance.

In crafting my works, I am perpetually on the hunt for unique materials. Lately, I have been captivated by wine foils and capsules, which offer a distinctive texture and character that inspire one-of-a-kind art pieces. These unconventional materials lead me to produce art that is truly unique, with each creation echoing the essence of rebirth and transformation.

Through my art, I hope to convey a message of hope and the beauty of second chances, both for the materials I use and the stories I tell.