Organic patterns and forms found in nature have an instinctive draw. The theory of fractal geometry; infinite layers of self- similar shapes repeated in every living thing, hold an endless fascination for me. From crystalline frost to river systems seen from outer space; this enormous energy in nature influences my work. My art process sprung from my contemplative practice, the fractal patterns are created from thousands of meditative brush strokes. In this time of social and political upheaval, sharing this meditative practice both through community workshops and deep observation of nature is healing to both ourselves and our planet.
Allison Svoboda (b.1964, Detroit, Michigan) splits her time between Chicago and Michigan. Allison’s art practice exists on the edge between intuitive and deliberate mark making. Through paintings, sculpture and installations that are both ethereal and ominous, Svoboda highlights nature’s ability to regenerate, activate, and heal despite the damaged state of our environment. In 2015, she received the Hemera Fellowship to study Zen, calligraphy and shibori in Japan. This meditative practice and mark making continue to influence her work. Her year long solo show at the Peggy Notebart museum was based on 2 years of observing fractal geometry in the muesum’s extensive collections. She participated in the Hyde Park Art Center, Center Program 2019-20. Svoboda has received numerous fully funded residencies including Fiskars Village (Finland); Ragdale, Vermont Studio Center and Haystack’s prestigious Open Studio Program. Svoboda’s public art sculptures can be seen at Nashville International Airport and North Center Plaza in Chicago. Her work is in private, corporate and hotel collections throughout the world, including Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco, InterContinental Real Guatemala, and the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, among others.
