Erica Mattson

Through mediums like drawing, printmaking, and painting I explore simple lines and shapes using colours and forms found in the natural world. I draw inspiration from plants and the unrushed work of nature and use slow, repetitive, meditative processes like printmaking, accumulation drawing, and slow painting to explore botanical, abstract, and geometric forms. I look for ways to keep my footprint on nature light and find great inspiration in using repurposed and eco-friendly materials in my process, such as packaging materials, salvaged wood, found papers and canvas.

My studio practice is often brief and intermittent due to the demands of work and parenting, but it persists! Art is a necessary tool in my life – a mode of sanity-seeking and self-care, a sacred and unhurried space for healing and reflection, and a way to let myself grow.

My current work focuses on themes of healing, adaptability, connection, and renewal as expressed through a set of drawings, hand-pulled linocut prints, photography, and mixed media work. Seeds, dead and decaying plant matter and seasonal cycles of light, growth, renewal, and rest are reflected through simple lines, meditative mark-making, and still life assemblages. This body of work has been developing slowly over the last few years as part of a re-emergence into artistic practice after a long period of dormancy.

I studied English literature, cultural theory and art history at the University of Victoria, visual art at the Vancouver Island School of Art, and creative writing at Simon Fraser University, and I also have a Master’s degree in communications and culture from Royal Roads University.

I am a studio member at a new community artist run centre in Victoria, BC, and currently work as a consultant and advisor to leaders and changemakers advancing hopeful and amazing work in the social impact, government and cultural sectors.