Vera Wolsink explores the theme of 'Growing Up' in her final project
- Design
Vera Wolsink, a 22-year-old student in the final year of the Illustration Design course at the ArtEZ Academy of Art & Design Zwolle, works associatively in her final project about 'Growing Up.' Embracing the need or an idea to create, Vera utilizes materials that allow her to dive right in, such as quick-drying paint, chalk, graphite pencil, and recently, ceramics. Her associative approach showcases different pieces of her experiences, forming a compelling narrative in her final work.
Throughout her studies, Vera has grown not only in terms of mastering new techniques and materials but also on a personal level. She explains, "I have recently felt the need to create work that reflects my own story. There is nothing more personal than telling my own story. While my work is never directly linked to me, it addresses themes that deeply affect me. Each viewer interprets my work based on their personal knowledge and experiences."
Associations connected to form a narrative
Vera's final project encompasses collages, paintings, drawings, ceramics, and text. In her latest zine titled 'We are good eaters,' readers become part of a family's kitchen table, experiencing the child's perspective on conversations and how they interpret and are influenced by them. Through this immersive experience, Vera provides a thought-provoking insight into the impact of these conversations and their consequential effects on the child, unbeknownst to them. Driven by her intuition and emotions, Vera's creative process yields a continuous flow of ideas.
If you look closely, you'll see all the associations I've formed. My work comprises fragments of personal experiences that, when combined, tell a story centered around the theme of 'growing up.”
Illustration Design: more than just an illustrator
Throughout her Illustration Design studies, Vera's artistic development has expanded to encompass various forms and media. While she initially gravitated towards drawing and thoroughly enjoyed focusing on it for four years, she soon realized that she is not just an illustrator. Vera also delves into text-based work and explores creative freedom. "Drawing, for me, is a means to an end. I don't create illustrations to accompany texts; instead, I transform texts into images or compose poems and other written pieces. I work autonomously and pour my entire self into it. What do I have to convey? And why is it important? These are my starting points," Vera states.
Graduation marks a significant and fulfilling milestone for Vera, prompting her to reflect on the nurturing environment provided by the Illustration Design course. She describes it as a "safe haven" filled with like-minded individuals who understand her. The course offers valuable discourse on creative work and serves as a space for self-reflection.
Vera's final project will be showcased from June 29th to July 9th, 2023, during the Academy of Art & Design's prestigious final exhibition in Zwolle.
