Member of the Month – Kamloops Arts Council
Full Name: Krystyna Laycraft
Medium: Collages and mixed media
How long have you been doing your art: 28 years
What got you originally interested in the art you do: After running the private school for many years, I became exhausted and came close to having a breakdown. Fortunately, my close friend invited me to the series of her lectures on fundamental arts. I accepted her offer with deep gratitude. As a result, I found something special that changed my life. I fell in love with the process of being by myself in nature, observing, noting, and catching its beauty.
What is something you have learned about yourself through your art: Through my art, I become more open and sensitive, not only to human issues but often to broader world problems.
What do you enjoy the most about your art: The most crucial phase of my creative process is contemplation which can often lead me to the “Aha!” experience.
What is your favourite joke/quote: “Treat yourself through your development and creativity” Paul Cienin (the pen name of Kazimierz Dabrowski – Polish psychologist and psychiatrist)
What is something most people don’t know about you: I am interested in philosophy and singing poetry.
If you could teach everyone one art medium or method, what would it be, and why: I love to teach how to make collages. People can tell stories, express themselves, and deliver meaningful messages through collages.
What do you think makes art important: The pursuit of making collages has become my primary coping strategy during stressful and challenging times. It is the outlet of my dark thoughts and negative emotions and the source of positive emotions, such as interest, joy, satisfaction, and enthusiasm.
Why are you a member of the Kamloops Arts Council: Two years ago, I moved to BC from Alberta and wanted to be involved in the artistic life of BC.
What are you looking forward to the most in this upcoming year (A special show or project you’re working on): I am working on the project of creating 64 collages depicting 64 hexagrams of the I Ching. I plan to show my work in 2023.