Lorette C. Luzajic

Five Animal Tondos

Artist Statement

I often say that I am driven by eclectic curiosity and by the joy of juxtaposition, and these cheery animal tondos are no different. Finding snippets of poetry and small surreal or jovial details to bring an animal parade to life was an immense pleasure. These were my first round works. I usually work square, and playing with a new shape challenged me to explore new ways of composition. I wanted to work in a related series and create many pieces, to have a kind of jewel box of rounds. I chose animals because I was reading a number of fables and folk tales and reflecting on how myths and fairy tales, in so many different cultures, feature animals to convey anecdotes, humour, parables, and creativity. I also watched animal documentaries somewhat obsessively in the year or so before these, marvelling at the diverse, quirky personalities, habits and behaviours of our incredible fellow creatures. Perhaps these curious tondos will serve as portals of intrigue, inviting viewers to explore nature or folklore or both, and find much enchantment there.