Zaza Lewis

Hand-cut card and fabric mixed media

I illustrate by sketching on black sheet of card, which is then hand-cut using scissors and scalpel, before layering the fabrics, no need to use paint. I’ve often been asked what am I trying to say through my work, but essentially, I want to communicate a sense of joy. The medium in which I work lends itself to depicting these idealised, slightly naive illustrations and the bold colours of the fabrics help to further enhance the vibrancy of the images in my head.

I am trying to capture the precious and happy moments from my everyday life, whether it be from my garden or a local market, a walk in the fields or in a city – or even if I receive a bunch of flowers. I will often also use white, or a lack of colour, to help the picture breathe. A bit like a pause, a comma, or a full stop in a sentence. A breathing space is necessary, so the contrasts and colours become even more important.

I was born and grew up in Pau, South-West of France near the Pyrénées, and I frequently visit family there, as those amazing varied landscapes and colours have been a source of inspiration from the start. I have lived, worked and raised a family in Derbyshire, England, as a freelance graphic designer and also specialising in historical map making.

I have a dedicated outdoor artist studio in my garden in Derby. I am also a Banks Mill affiliate member.

Awards:
2018 Judges’ First Prize Summer Open Exhibition in Nottingham
2019 Highly Commended certificate for the Emerging Artist of the year Award, Creates Gallery in Monmouth
2021 Mixed Media Winner – Awarded by Nicola Winstanley from Creative Lives and Tony Turpin from Bromsgrove Arts Alive