Born in Toronto in 1972, Laura Jane Petelko is a Canadian photographic artist based in Toronto, known for her emotive and intimate work. With a background in studying and working as a master printer for renowned west coast photographic artists, she has exhibited her recent series, "MA," created in collaboration with dancers from the National Ballet of Canada, at prestigious venues in Toronto and New York. Laura Jane's poignant and abstract approach, influenced by a three-year prognosis of impending blindness, has garnered recognition in exhibitions across North America and Europe.
Since when do you paint and what are your favorite motives?
I have been a photographic artist since 1998. My practice has changed and evolved over the years but I'm interesting in using photography in an atypical way by removing information, selectively to bring the work in to a more beguilling and painterly space.
When you create a new work, how do you proceed? What comes first?
A series typically comes about as an evolution from my previous work. A new way to explore recurring themes. Often isnspired by lyrics in music and jumping off points from things touched on previously.
From what do you get your motivation?
My motivation I think comes from the need to consume and create art that lives outside of our day to day reality and it's definitions. This motivation only becomes greater with time.
Your life without art would be...
..... impossible to imagine.
What's the best art venue in your city right now?
There are several but my personal go to galleries for work that resonates would be Bau Xi Gallery and Nicholas Metivier Gallery.
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