Winnipeg-born Rachelle Diddens says art was always a part of her life. Her father was a carpenter and artist, and she learned early the skills of fixing up items and refinishing furniture with him. It was with reclaimed zinc that Rachelle began developing the unique kind of canvas that anchors most of her current work. The edges are folded back to form an elegant, ready-to-hang frame that is integral with the surface.
The creative process begins with .22 gauge pre-patina zinc metal sheets originating from Germany in 1M sheets which then get cut, bent and hemmed to the specified sizes followed by the application of paints & oils. She spent two years developing her original painting technique.
Rachelle’s painting is abstract, often with patterns or networks that spread across the surface like fractals. There are repeated, recognizable elements that diagram myriad units which are all different but, in the wider scheme, largely the same – in connection with each other, but also broken and separated. These, she says, can be read as an allegory for the interrelationships of people within our system.
My work is about connection, with each other & our earth. I’ve always felt a spiritual attachment to our earth, the moon, lakes, oceans. My work is positive, its an expression of love for our planet.
I’ve always tried to connect with people I encounter throughout my day. Whether it be a bus driver, a cashier or someone I pass by on the sidewalk. A large part of my inspiration comes from the loved ones in my life and my daily encounters with people.