Artist Statement
The bowl has been a prevalent symbol in Marika’s work for many years. In her new paintings, however, Marika loses all other embellishments and presents the bowl as an autonomous and coherent work of art.
Historically, the form of the bowl has been a symbol of unity, wholeness and infinity. For many cultures, the bowl represents the feminine, the womb of life. For others, it has masculine associations, such as the Cup of Christ or Buddha's alms bowl. To Marika, the bowl is emblematic of the self. “These paintings are not still life, they are self portraits.”
The form and texture of the bowl has a physicality that grounds the painting on the canvas, while the depth of colour and the subtle textures draw the viewer in and invoke easeful contemplation.
The bold use of colour conveys Marika’s emotional response to the natural environment. Her move to the far north of New Zealand has inspired her to explore vivid colour tones and these, along with her excellent sense of aesthetics, ensures that the results are harmonious – as such, these paintings represent a successful extension from her earlier monochromatic works.
While there is a stillness and meditative quality about these paintings, there too exists a playfulness of movement and light that draws the viewer into a conversation with the art.
artists bio
Elam, Auckland University 1999 - 2001 studying BFANorthtec 2010 - 2011 studying BVA
Marika was born in Dunedin in 1967 and moved to Auckland when she was five. Marika first began painting 14 years ago after making the decision to leave her job in the corporate world and become an artist – a decision which bore fruit almost immediately when, as a first year Elam student, her first exhibition was a sell out. Ever since Marika has completed many corporate and private commissions and has shown her work throughout New Zealand, Australia and London. Her work is held in collections in Australia, Britain, France, America, Japan and Singapore.
Marika is represented by The Remuera Gallery in Auckland, Arts Agency Aotearoa and by the Northcote Gallery in London.