Sophie Symanczyk

Swept under the rug: microaggressions

Swept Under the Rug: Microaggressions is an installation that aims to highlight the often-overlooked issue of microaggressions and how they can be damaging to individuals, their self-perceptions, and self-worth. Through the use of abstract shapes, colour, form, and lines, the installation represents the impact of microaggressions. The piece showcases how words hold significant power over people’s emotions and can have a lasting impact on individuals. The installation’s visual and tactile qualities explore the microaggressions that have been said throughout Symanczyk’s life as a mixed-race individual, making the microaggressions tangible and visible for all to see.

Artist Biography

Sophie is an emerging mixed-race artist. She is interested in how her mixed heritage, complex and diverse personal experiences, and societal norms are expressed and showcased through her work. Sophie is a multidisciplinary artist, focusing on painting, drawing, digital illustration, textiles, and installation. She uses different mediums to create works that are rich in graphics, colour, and symbolism. Through Sophie’s artistic practice, she aims to create dialogue and understanding about how our individual and collective identities are shaped by our cultural heritage and community.

Artist statement

My artistic practice explores the intersection of identity, culture, and community. I create distinct and unique pieces by experimenting with a diverse range of techniques and mediums. My work features imagery and symbolism that reflects my diverse background and culture, aiming to create a visual language that is both personal and universal. I use my art to bring awareness to important issues such as racism. Racism towards Asian communities including my own experiences dealing with racism has greatly influenced my work. I hope to inspire reflection, dialogue, and connection among people from different backgrounds and experiences.

How did you start your art practice?

I became interested in art and artmaking at a young age. I was and still am inspired by my grandmother who is a talented artist specializing in traditional Chinese watercolour paintings and charcoal drawings. I attended a fine arts elementary school that helped refine my passion for art. I have taken multiple art classes throughout my life, which further nurtured and developed my artistic abilities. I enjoy experimenting with multiple mediums, including painting, drawing, printmaking, digital illustration, textiles, and installation. I frequently explore different techniques and mediums and incorporate them into my art practice.