"In Finland, my artistic practice primarily revolves around ancient printing techniques such as etching, woodcut, lithography, and silkscreen printing. My cultural upbringing is deeply rooted in the aesthetics of the Italian, Portuguese, French, and Dutch Renaissance, providing a rich tapestry of influence. This foundation is further enriched by diverse cultural encounters, including immersion in Japanese traditions and fifteen years of residing in Finland.
My body of work is distinctly divided into two thematic expressions: one explores classicism, evoking childhood memories, intimacy, motherhood, and responses to trauma arising from abandonment and loss. The other investigates Portuguese identity, particularly through the family land where the flowers that flourish there play a significant role.
A key element of my practice is examining the fragility of our shared natural resources as a universal language to establish a dialogue between the viewer and the artwork. Employing ancient techniques, I create permanent impressions on metal plates, which allow for the production of multiples, transforming the act of printing into a means of conveying a sense of longing. All the flowers I depict originate from the Atlantic coastline, particularly the Southwest Portuguese landscape. This region, a natural reserve of unique plant species, holds personal significance as my family owns a parcel of land there. Revisiting this area every two to three years with my son reinforces the emotional and artistic connection.
This family land is a site of generational continuity, represented by a house built through shared effort and resources. It symbolizes the enduring ties of family and the passage of time. My artistic process is deeply intertwined with this heritage: I gather small plants from the area, bring them back to Finland, and subject them to an alchemical transformation. Using meticulous etching techniques, these botanical specimens are preserved on copper plates and immortalized through print. This ritual embodies a poignant connection to my roots, bridging the physical distance between my present life and ancestral heritage.
The interplay of classical influences and representations of nature has been a constant theme throughout my practice over the past fifteen years."
This portfolio is static and made only for the purpose of introducing the artist's body of work. If you wish to know more about Vargas and current projects, please book a visit to the studio or visit social media. Request CV to rita.vargas(a)gmail.com.
Picture credits: Tiitus Petäjäniemi, 2022.