Shriya Rai
The Test of Time
The Test of Time is an art piece that delves into the topic of environmental awareness. More specfically, the work talks about how people are running out of time to combat environmental issues. This topic is explored through the various uses of symbolism within the art piece. The hourglass symbolizes the loss of time, within it the Pyramids of Giza are drawn to represent the environment as a historical monument. As if this issue of environmental awarerness is not being paid attention to, people in the future may look at the environment as history, something that used to thrive. The hourglass sits in a barren room showing that this issue is not completely being seen.
Artist biography
Shriya Rai is an Indian-Canadian multidisciplinary artist, currently located in Calgary, she will achieve her Bachelors of Fine Art from the University of Calgary in May 2023. She has exhibited within numerous group exhibitions throughout her schooling, including a IB art exhibition and many group exhibitions within her university degree.
Her artistic practice is based on a variety of themes, including the effects of humans on animals and the environment, awareness of mental and physical health, identity, and time. Drawing is her main medium, but she also works with sculpture, photography, multimedia, and digital. Her research on these diverse issues, which she incorporates into visual expression through her artwork, has a significant influence on her artistic practice.
Artist statement
As a multidisciplinary artist, within my art practice I focus on the topic of awareness. Though drawing is the medium I tend to gravitate towards the most. With the use of graphite, ballpoint pen, coloured pencils, mixed media, and sculpture over time, I have developed my technical ability to work with realism.
The interactions I have with the environment, different individuals, and research all influence my artistic practice. My artistic practice aims to bring awareness to specific problems that, if corrective measures are not done, could get worse over time.With my work, I aim to create a unique intersection between art and awareness that I hope will bring corrective actions to the issues I raise.
How did you start your art practice?
I started my art practice at a very young age as I was fascinated by how artists got to their end result. From there I worked towards drawing simple things progressing towards my goal of achieving realism, while also experimenting with other mediums. My passion to advance my art skills further and learn motivates me to create art.
Instagram: @shriyaraiart