Josanna Borelli-Zavala
metal sculpture
437 Adams Street
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 255-3541
josannabz@aol.com

 
Nature has remained my primary inspiration. The endless changes of flowers, foliage, water, light and landscape are within my work. I attempt to capture what I see in a realistic and uncontrived way. I find that I am most satisfied when my artwork reflects the texture, color, beauty, suppleness and spontaneity of nature. My sense of line and motion are influenced by years of classical ballet and jazz, and I frequently draw upon my background in textiles, clothing design and pattern drafting when creating a piece.

I rarely begin to bend or cut the metal until after I have manipulated the hard monochromatic surface. Working with varying high temperatures, mallets and grinding tools, I strive to engage the metal in a dance of texture, color, light, dimension, volume and motion, just as the raised pile of plush velvet.

In June 2002, I suffered a terrible crushing injury to my left hand. Over the course of three years I regained limited use of my thumb and hand. Although forging has become very difficult, I continue to do so. My desire to sculpt and my limited ability has also driven me to explore wire cloth as a new sculpting medium.

Please feel free to visit me at my studio in Old Town Napa. For appointment call 707 255-3541.

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