Elka Nowicka
Biography

Nowicka achieves unique a mixed media approach to her art using acrylic on canvas; incorporating multiple layers of acrylics, gels, paste, marble dust, gold leaf, and other exotics to realize exquisite depth and texture in her work. Transparency and gradual patina with sumptuous, crumbled, yet reflective surfaces convey an intensity of light, colour and experience in every piece. This technique cannot be duplicated. Its planned and random effects are the essence of Elka’s creative process that gives each piece its unique beauty.
Currently residing in British Columbia, Elka Nowicka was born in Poland where she earned her Master’s Degree in Engineering. After practicing professionally for a period Elka left this field and developed a successful fashion business in Poland and Germany. In 1990 she packed up her books on everything from old Byzantine art to Russian icons, and moved to Winnipeg where she worked in costume-design for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. She continued to pursue her love for the creative and established herself as an accomplished artist and designer, and a full time painter in the last few years.

ARTIST STATEMENT
“I’m inspired by antiques, classics, glamour, and the union of old and new. I explore the past for inspiration and I feel my work encompasses layer upon layer of images unveiled from my memories: childhood and early life in Europe, my recent 20 years of rich and bountiful life in Canada and extensive travels. The weathered and crumbled plaster walls of Poland and Italy, rich in the dark plush palettes of old European masters, the incredible maze of color, lights and reflections in the rain forest near Tofino, are never far from my vision. I can’t seem to shake my heritage and past environment and I’ve ended up doing works that are reminiscent of the old world, yet they have a very pronounced modern sensibility too. My intent is to capture the intensity of emotions and reflections, the depth of experiences and relationships. Multi-textured technique intrigues me - it permits the control but allows the spontaneity in the creative process.”

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Elka Nowicka

Education
Construction Engineering, Poland, Masters Degree

Selected Exhibitions
2008 9th Annual Art Gala, Monterey School, Victoria, BC
2008 Art in Bloom, Victoria Art Gallery, Victoria, BC
2008 Nikol Haskova & Elka Nowicka, Canada House Gallery, Banff, AB
2007 Joy, Canada House Gallery, Banff, AB
2007 Canadian Garden Show, West End Gallery, Edmonton, AB
2007 Anniversary Collection, 2007, West End Gallery, Edmonton, AB
2007 For the Love of Art, West End Gallery, Edmonton, AB

Publications
2008 Magazin Art, Summer issue
2008 Victoria Times
2004 "Artistry in the Boudoir", Boulevard Magazine

Shayne Gallery, Montreal, PQ
www.shaynegallery.com

Orders, Inquires and Information
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