Come meet Gig Harbor artist Vanessa Lanza, welcome her to Vashon, and view her collection of prints.

“Arboreal” is an exhibition of Vanessa’s large format hand-burnished relief prints taken from salvaged tree sections that explore the growth rings and life cycle of our native trees. Her butterfly series is a group of red alder relief prints with chine-collé that represents interdependence in nature.

ARTIST STATEMENT

As a Pacific Northwest native, I have a deep, spiritual connection to trees. They are a ubiquitous life-giving presence that help center and ground me. They carry stories, memories and wisdom beyond human comprehension.  My artwork is an expression of my absolute admiration of the trees and landscapes that surround us.

All wood that I use in my art pieces are salvaged and sourced locally in the Pacific Northwest.  They are trees that have already been felled and discarded. I never cut down a tree; in fact, I like to think that I am preserving the tree’s legacy by documenting its life story. Each woodcut reveals what that tree has lived through. Much like people, trees are survivors. They have good years and bad. They persevere through traumatic events, and their scars are internalized, healed, and grown over. They are unique, resilient, and beautiful. They grow deep roots that keep them grounded, stable, and connected to other trees in their community.