Szende Tunderligeti

Szende is a mixed media artist based in Toronto, whose practice centers around the use of salvaged wood to create unique wall mobiles and sculptures. Her art is a celebration of womanhood, motherhood, diversity, equity, and inclusion, expressed through various mediums and techniques.

Growing up in Transylvania, Romania, sculpting figures and pottery were some of the first artistic disciplines Szende was introduced to at a young age. After immigrating to Canada at age nine, her artistic interests shifted towards sketching and practicing realism and figurative portraits.

In her twenties and thirties, Szende's art took a backseat to more "practical" pursuits, but creativity continued to manifest itself in other ways, such as decorating her home and repurposing objects and furniture. Eventually, she took up jewelry making and beading using repurposed materials and sold her pieces at craft markets. The pandemic then inspired her to create wood ornaments for Christmas, which became a family activity and reignited her love for creating.

Szende's mission is to break down barriers and increase understanding and acceptance for the special needs community in our society. Her art has been a catalyst for healing, allowing her to connect to her roots and experience life through a clear and authentic lens. She aims to connect people through her art and invites them to engage with nature on their terms.

The circles and dots repeated unintentionally in her work represent the totality and wholeness that art brings to Szende's life. Nature Arts is a representation and celebration of her personal journey, as well as her passion for creating art that speaks to her audience in a meaningful way.