IT LIVES IN THE SHADOWS
Kiya Saffinga

 

This body of work attempts to illuminate and celebrate human suffering, particularly in relation to family structures. The series is an embodiment of the impact that trauma and tragedy have on relationships, and the tension that lives in the space of the unspoken.

 

Death, illness, substance abuse, estrangement, incarceration, and failure, are inherent in Australian families, who regardless, come together with deep love, and resilience. However, gathering for family photos, and boozy laughter can not silence the sadness that often haunts the hallways.

 

These paintings share insight into Kiya’s own family, and the beauty she sees in both the dark, and the light. The works pay homage to the characters in her life who have inspired and guided her, and are a tribute to those no longer with us. Often from the perspective of a child, she evokes a sense of memory, and a feeling of “looking on” to describe her helplessness. Haunting, yet familiar, these paintings are an attempt to capture the “space between”; that hangs brightly, and so, is painted here with curiosity and love.

 

Kiya is an emerging artist, who studied fine art as a young Mum at Queensland college of art. She has raised three children and has pursued several careers including high school teaching, and has a masters in psychology. Her interest in human emotion, thought, and behaviour has become a cornerstone of her works.