In her latest project, The Transformation Series, Warsaw-based printmaker Magdalena Szata shares a very personal journey. Specialising in graphic arts, Magdalena’s work focuses primarily on linocut and pen-and-ink drawings on paper. These techniques provide her with a wide range of artistic possibilities, allowing her to use lines and dots to build tonal transitions that add contrast, depth, and mood to each piece, while also enhancing the textures and structure. Her latest series of prints exhibit these characteristic techniques, and look at the concepts of change, growth, and discovering who we truly are. Within each print, Magdalena explores her own path of facing challenges, letting go of what no longer served her, and embracing new possibilities. “It’s a story of moving through darker parts of myself and coming out with a clearer, truer sense of who I am,” describes the printmaker.
Magdalena states; “For me, personal transformation is a bit like facing shadows — it can be uncomfortable, even scary, but it’s also a way to grow stronger.” The Transformation Series captures this journey. Each linocut represents a moment in her life where Magdalena had to face her fears, let go of old patterns, and release things that were holding her back. Through this process, she was able to peel away the “masks” she was wearing, find her true self, and embrace healthier, more valuable possibilities. Magdalena comments; “Creating these linocuts allowed me to reflect deeply on these changes. It was a way to share my rebirth, both as an artist and as a person.”
Telling us more about her process Magdalena says; “When I started The Transformation Series, I knew I wanted each linocut to work as a single, unique piece but also as part of a bigger story. I carefully designed each print so that it could stand on its own and fit into a larger composition when placed together. This took a lot of focus and planning, making sure each linocut contributed to the overall artwork.” This approach allowed the printmaker to explore the power of each individual piece, as well as how they all work together. “It’s similar to how life events come together to shape who we are – each experience matters on its own, but they all connect to tell a bigger story,” remarks Magdalena.
The Transformation Series comprises ten linocuts, each arranged in a specific order. This order reflects Magdalena’s own personal journey, with each print leading to the next. The last print marks both an end and a new beginning, showing that transformation is ongoing — each new stage of life brings a fresh opportunity for growth.
She sums the series up as follows; “With The Transformation Series, I hope viewers will look at their own paths, thinking about their own experiences of growth and change. Each piece invites a moment of reflection, encouraging us to see how we are always changing and finding new paths.” Magdalena concludes; “My goal for this series is to offer a sense of connection. Through my art, I want to inspire others to look within, to find the courage to face their own transformations, and to celebrate their unique journey. The Transformation Series is my way of sharing how beautiful it can be to grow, to let go, and to begin again.”
www.magdalenaszata.com
@magdalenaszata.art
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