Annika Strand - Wonders of the Forest

Annika Strand

Wonders of the Forest  2022

oil on cloth

approx. 250 x 170 cm

This piece is an abstract body painting. Annika created this with her hands, feet and nose. She uses her uncontrollable movements to her advantage and creates all kinds of unique strokes when painting. This is a new style she adopted in 2021 which contrasts with her previous more realistic works. Wonders of the Forest is inspired by the hinterland up in Mount Tambourine.

About the artist:

Annika Strand uses determination and ingenuity to create joyful paintings, despite her disability called Cerebral Palsy, which causes uncontrollable movements throughout her body. She has found ways to conquer these obstacles, discovering new and unique ways of expressing herself. When she paints Annika uses different parts of her body, such as her nose and the palm of her hand to achieve finer details. As a young person living on the Gold Coast, Annika draws her inspiration from the abundance of nature around her, capturing a light and colourful palette that adds depth and delight. She often represents her family and their connections to Sweden in her work.

Annika was selected as the Artist in Residence at Runaway Bay Library in 2021, where she has painted live and displayed her artwork.

Her exhibition highlights include The 2020 Border Art Prize and the Labour Day Community Art Awards where she was the winner for their University/TAFE category.

In 2021, Annika also complete her Diploma of Graphic Design. Graphic design is a skill that allows Annika to use her artwork to design her own line of merchandise including prints, cards and wine which can be found at www.artangeldesign.com.

Please, contact the gallery by phone (07) 3151 6655  or email  shop-aftm@wmq.org.au  to arrange pick-up or shipping*.

*Shipping at the buyer's expense. AFTM will assist in finding the best price option for shipping.