Artemis Laura Schatzkin

Statement

The famous dancer Nijinsky said, “God is Beauty. Beauty is God.”

My art is about Beauty. What I find beautiful are other animals and my connection to them. This has always been true for me, and I think it is how most humans perceive the world early in life.

I see myself as an animal. I’m an animal who can draw other animals, but that does not make me separate or superior to other species. These concepts of hierarchy and separation idea has caused the environment and other species great harm. My aim is to use my natural connection to other species to help others contemplate their connection. I want to make this expression beautiful. Just as important to this expression is my belief that art can open hearts and minds. That belief gives my art its crucial depth as a message to other humans.

I am my art; it’s not something I do, it’s who I am.

Bio
When I was five years old, I would tell people I was going to be a deer when I grew up. I was very embarrassed when I realized you had to stay a human your whole life. That’s when I switched to my second choice: to be an artist. Throughout my childhood I love drawing and painting and was always trying to improve my skills.

I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area just after college, which felt like coming home. The natural surroundings have been a strong influence on my life and my art. I initially pursued an art career for about a decade but then decided I did not want to sell my art, as it was too personal. Many years later I completely changed my mind on this. I am now possessed by a strong desire to get my art out into the world. I would like my art to bring beauty, thoughtfulness and inspiration to as many people as possible.