Here is a little take away from Wendee Yudis, serigraph artist and painter based in Philadelphia. Yudis reflects on her Spring 2024 solo-exhibition, Untamed.
What initially brought you to art?
My mother was an artist, so growing up my world was filled with culture and the arts. I remember going to art school on Saturdays from a very young age all the way up until high school, when I took classes at Moore College of Art in Philadelphia. There was never a question in my mind that I wouldn’t pursue a creative path. Art is woven into the fabric of my being; it is an inseparable part of my identity and existence. It has shaped my perspective and has always provided me with a profound sense of purpose and connection to the world.
What imagery has historically interested you and why?
I’m drawn to retro imagery probably because it best illustrates cultural norms of the time and a romanticized view of what appears to be simpler times, on the surface. I enjoy combining cultural references, outdated social constructs and humor with narratives. My work serves as a commentary on societal expectations while celebrating the freedom and power of every woman to question and reshape these norms.
How has your process evolved in the last 5-10 years?
Over the past 5-10 years, my art has evolved thematically, delving into unconscious gender bias and cultural norms, and women’s empowerment all while achieving greater clarity in its thematic expression. Stylistically, I've grown more confident in creating large-scale pieces on wood, while also exploring smaller works as studies in color and composition. By experimenting with the combination of painting, spray paint, and silkscreen, I've developed a layering system that creates symmetry and ties everything together. I’ve also integrated more design elements into my artwork, influenced by my career in graphic design. I've become bolder in my use of color, imagery, and the clarity of my message and intent.
What or who has had the most influence on your work?
Hands down, Andy Warhol!
What is your identity at large? Do you think about this a lot in relation to your art?
I view myself as a woman, a mother, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a lover, and as a creative. My art is really just the vehicle that allows me to express the various faucets of myself. I’m expanding the way I think about expressing this artistically. I’m experimenting with new mediums such as large-scale digital wallpaper, fabric design for furniture, and clothing design. I build brands for companies at work as a graphic designer, so now I am building and becoming my own brand that incorporates my aesthetic, humor, messaging, style into various mediums and even merch!
What is the most precious takeaway from this exhibition?
The unspoken connection with others was incredible to witness. When my artwork touches someone emotionally or intellectually, it creates a profound connection between myself, as the artist, and the viewer. It reminds me that we are all connected and share universal emotions and feelings. I love that art has the power to resonate with people on a universal and personal level.
What has surprised you about your practice?
The one constant about my practice is that creating art serves as a cathartic experience, as it helps me to grow, process and release emotions and is truly therapeutic and contributes to my emotional well-being. It is surprising that has been constant in every stage of my life. And I am very grateful for this.
Learn more about Wendee on her artist page, and read about her solo, Untamed!
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