ALEKSANDRA RDEST
Aleksandra Rdest is a Toronto-based artist that does not conform to the demands of the commercial art market. Instead, she likes to take risks and challenge herself and the style in which she paints. “My work is process driven and I love experimenting with new materials that change my technique, which often puts me at odds with gallery directors that request that artists keep making work in the same style over long periods of time,” the artist says. Rdest is an emerging artist picking up momentum, a force that is impossible to ignore.
Aleksandra Rdest, Motel Movies, 2014, oil & egg tempera on cradled panel, 36 x 54 in.
Rdest graduated from OCAD in 2002, but it was earlier on that she discovered her artistic creativity: “My dad showed me how to use a 35mm camera when I was in my early teens; I fell in love with chasing sunbeams and catching them on film. I have been taking photos ever since.”
Currently, Rdest works with oil to paint abstract representations based upon photos manipulated to amplify their digital artefact. Her technique blends the traditional mode of representational painting with the contemporary technology of a photograph to transcend time, while still being of the moment. “I came to this style after working abstractly for a decade because I wanted to find a way to merge my photographic practice with my painting practice.”
Rdest believes that the best part of creating her art is that she is able to make her own decisions and follow the path that she sets for herself. “I work long hours, but I don’t work 9-5; I take breaks when I need to, but I often don’t take breaks at all.” Rdest is incredibly passionate about her artistic practice, a mode that demands constant evolution. “I need to keep evolving in order to be excited to get into my studio.” As each work builds upon the one before it, it is impossible to forsee what her pieces will look like in the future (although you will likely want to see them).
Rdest began her career by chasing big name art galleries in fancy locations. Now, she prefers to work with more down-to-earth family businesses. “My work still gets into the hands of great collectors but without all the drama and pomp.” Some of the private collectors include; Four Seasons Toronto, Royal Bank of Canada, Holt Renfrew Toronto and Canaccord Capital Corporation, among others.
She insists that art should be fun. “Fun will keep you motivated to keep creating.” She also suggests that art can, and should be challenging. “Pursue the intangible and keep challenging yourself. Art is not an easy path.” To make it easier, she advocates creating a support circle of peers that understand the artistic process and can offer their support.
Rdest has an upcoming exhibition at the Rumi Galleries in the Fall of 2014.
Aleksandra Rdest, Man Soda, 2014, oil & egg tempera on canvas over cradled panel, 54 x 36 in.
Aleksandra Rdest, G & T with Lemon, 2014, oil on canvas, 36 x 54 in.
