First solo exhibition for artist

Polish born artist Julia Krystyna will hold her first solo exhibition at the Matakana Smokehouse, on the corner of Matakana and Sharp Roads, next month.

The exhibition will showcase 12 pieces of art within 12 handmade hardwood picture frames.
Krystyna’s mixed media style uses fine line and dot work, as well as dried leaves and flowers, and wood shavings.

“It’s very textual and gives a 3D effect,” she says. “The hardwood frames are made from scratch using reclaimed materials. Every step of the process, from sanding the wood to cutting the glass, was done by me.

“This collection of art represents the last year of my creative journey.”

Although Krystyna studied economics and worked as a professional chef for 11 years, her decision to focus on art during the past 12 months is not surprising.

“I grew up in a creative environment in Katowice, southern Poland, where my father was an artist and sculptor and my mother was a performance artist.”

Krystyna, who moved to Matakana a year ago, says the exhibition opening on Friday, May 13 at 5pm will be a celebration of all things local, with local food and beverages and live music.
The exhibition will be open on Saturday and Sunday, May 14 and 15, from 1pm onwards.