‘Red Ribbons’ 2024

Post Space Exeter, 13 June – 20 July 2024

“Drawing upon a synthesis of symbolism, predominantly inspired by Pagan mythology, and my own lived experiences, I endeavor to weave a tapestry of meaning and emotion that traverses diverse realms of human understanding. This amalgamation of cultural motifs and personal narrative fosters a nuanced dialogue between past and present, tradition and innovation.” Miranda Skoczek, 2024

Miranda Skoczek is a Melbourne based artist whose practice is based on her spacial and emotional responses to everything she consumes and surrounds herself with, informed by a deep theoretical understanding of colour and composition. This exhibition Red Ribbons, titled from the Polish tradition of tying red ribbons to precious objects and people as protection, is a deeply personal exploration of her Polish heritage and the ancient practices of Central and Eastern Europe.

These paintings have become, for the artist, a vessel for profound discoveries and cultural introspection, rooted in the protective aspects of objects, rituals, and ceremonial dress, the work transcends mere representation to immerse viewers in a world suffused with magical energies.

A strong desire for artistic freedom results in paintings which differ greatly from one canvas to the next with Skoczek’s colourful life-size paintings intergrating recognisable forms with abstract shapes, uniting muted tones with flashes of incredible colour. All melding her wide-ranging influences into a visually and emotionally arresting new body of work.

ABC Radio National: Artist Miranda Skoczek on her most personal work to-date