There is something very sensual and tactile about using charcoal. I love being able to feel the grit on the canvas with my fingers. The way it smears and smudges across the page eventually turning into something worth looking at. It's a release.

I love focusing on the subject of human vulnerability and capturing moments that are raw. The fragility of mental health is something I explore frequently in my work. As someone who has been managing my depression and anxiety for over a decade, this is a topic that speaks very closely to me and has also influenced my artwork.

People used to always ask me “why are your drawings all so sad? Why are they never smiling?” I guess you can say I’m fascinated in capturing the moments in between the laughter. Those moments when we are alone and have time to think, to reflect. Sometimes I think that it makes people uncomfortable to see this because it’s honest. Sometimes emotions that are honest are not always pleasant.

http://www.tanyasolonyka.com

https://www.youtube.com/user/tsolonyka

https://www.facebook.com/tanya.solonyka

https://www.instagram.com/drunkinamidnightchoir/