Paula Bellacera

 

I explore how domestic and wild animals literally and metaphorically mirror human nature, reminding us that we share emotions and DNA. For three years, as a graduate student, I observed animals in their natural habitat. This experience compelled me to further explore animals through art and art history. I am inspired by how ancient civilizations and indigenous people interact with animals and depict them in art and storytelling.

​The core message of my ceramic sculptures and mixed media paintings is our emotional and instinctive connection with animals. Sometimes my imagery is contemplative but mostly joyful and whimsical. Viewers inevitably smile or laugh in recognition of various emotions expressed in my work. In order to connect the viewer with perennial wisdom (connectedness with nature and consciousness), I am beginning to layer characters and symbols into my work from sources such as sacred geometry and astronomy.