Description
‘Tree of Life’ by Simona Ruscheva
Artist: Simona Ruscheva
Title: ‘Tree of Life’
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 36″ x 24″
Framing: Framed (frame size: 37″ x 25″)
Year of Creation: 2021
About the Artwork:
“This work is inspired by one of the main traditional symbols in Bulgarian embroidery – the Tree of Life, or also called the Cosmic tree. The Tree of Life is one of the most universal symbols that can be found in many cultures, which is another example of the collective unconscious at play.
In Bulgarian culture is predominantly found on women`s clothes and it symbolises her ancestral connection. It also relates to the cycle of nature and life (birth, death, re-birth) and is a link between the Mother Earth and Heavens.
It is usually accompanied by an orbiting sun with the culmination in the whole piece being appearance of the Mother Goddess in the crown of the tree, which is precisely what my work is.” – Simona Ruscheva
About the Artist:
(Artist Bio)
My name is Simona Ruscheva. I graduated Fine Art Painting in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. I am currently living and working in London, UK
I had my first solo show “The source” in Sofia, Bulgaria in 2018. I have also participated in various group shows across London, including Royal Institute of British Artists Annual exhibition, where my work was Highly Commended by the De Laszlo Foundation, and Society of Women Artists Annual Exhibition. I have been shortlisted for Artrooms Awards in 2019. I recently became a member of ArtCan artists organization.
(Artist Statement)
I am a contemporary figurative artist, based in London, UK. Being an immigrant has a huge influence on my work, as my way of staying connected to my culture is directly through my works. I explore various subjects from Bulgarian folklore and heritage, using very traditional elements and objects, such as embroidery and pottery designs, with mythological themes and universal symbols. I implement and transform ideas from different rituals and fables to create a contemporary interpretation of my culture, emphasising on the mystical and esoteric aspect of it.
With my works I want to strengthen and expand people`s awareness of the still existing cultural diversity in a current world setting, where globalisation is the new trend. With ethnicity being melted down, I consider it really important to acknowledge and preserve our own heritage.