Artist statement:

“Feeling connected to nature and experiencing the joy and peace it brings is a fundamental human experience that everyone deserves. As an artist, I explore these inspired emotions through my work using layers of paint and collage paper. My intention is to bring my audience into my world by sharing what I see and love, and perhaps they will see and love it too! Having cheerful art in our homes and surroundings can uplift our spirits, bringing joy and peace into our lives.”

Tell us briefly about your background & how you got started in your medium.

Phiroza is a mixed media and collage artist, who moved to the Harrisburg area in 2013 when her journey began with mixed media art. She started off as an abstract artist, but over the past years has incorporated more collage into her art, as she enjoys exploring new forms of expression. The artist journey is all about trying new things, incorporating new techniques, refining style, and creating art that feels exciting and engaging!

How does your medium inform your viewpoint? Or what do you like most about your medium?

I love making collage as it is a creative, fun, and expressive way to make art. My art is inspired by nature, patterns, collage papers, and vibrant color! I make collage using interesting papers or stencils to create a background, and then proceed to paint my subject on top of it. My art is created in layers and it’s interesting to see some of the collage peeking through from underneath. I complete my art using linework to emphasize detail and invite the viewer into the painting.

Who or what have been your artistic inspirations?

I took a collage making workshop a few years ago and found it so much fun that I haven’t been able to stop creating in this way. Inspiration comes in many forms – and my art is inspired by nature.

Do you have a favorite piece in your portfolio?

Yes, I made a 24” x 24” collage series of the magnificent lotus flower and this piece turned out to be my favorite!

What would be your advice to artists just starting out in your medium?

Explore collage making as it’s a fun and easy way to get started on a painting. It will keep you loose and free and is a forgiving medium, for if you don’t like something in your painting you can just collage over it! You might get hooked on collage as I have, and it’s certainly worth giving it a try.