Diana Casanova

Artist Statement:

My artistic journey has long been centered on the exploration of the feminine form intertwined with elements of dark surrealism. Through the lens of trauma, my practice has evolved to challenge the boundaries between beauty and the macabre. Each personal upheaval reshapes my artistic expression, resulting in a dynamic interplay of emotions.

As a mixed media artist, I delve into the delicate balance between allure and repulsion. I depict women with vacant or obscured gazes, symbolizing the aspects of ourselves we often conceal. Each portrait serves as a metaphorical mask, representing transient personas adopted and discarded over time.

Using a blend of watercolor washes and intricate ink outlines, I imbue my subjects with depth and complexity. The meticulous rendering of hair, achieved through repetitive ballpoint pen strokes, underscores the laborious nature of self-exploration. Atmospheric backgrounds lend an ethereal quality to the compositions, inviting viewers into the emotional landscape of each piece.

These illustrations serve as snapshots of my evolving identity, capturing moments of transformation and growth. While rooted in darkness, they also reflect the gradual emergence of light and resilience with the passage of time.