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Vertigo Warriors | Molong

A spiritual journey, etched.

Inspired by her recent journey with breast cancer, Vertigo Warriors,  is Jane Tonk‘s response to the challenges and changes faced on the road through treatment and recovery. Currently showing at Jayes Gallery in Molong, the exhibition is an uplifting meditation on her experience, and a showcase of printmaking mediums and techniques.  “Printmaking provides me with a very cathartic way to document my journey and express myself,” Jane said.

‘Vertigo’, the fear of falling over the edge, is a metaphor for the devastation you feel when diagnosed with cancer. The imagery of ‘paper-chain’ figures in these prints is an icon for the many ‘Warrior Women’ who are going through, or have gone through breast cancer. The paper chain exhibits qualities of both strength and fragility in equal measure…  these figures seem to have taken on a life-force of their own… however, there is always a deeper examination and expression of emotion and mortality underlying the whimsical notions. 
– Jane Tonks, Artist Statement

Jane explores copper-sulphate etchings on aluminium plates, woodblock prints, linocuts, collagraphs and monoprints.  The artist regularly exhibits artwork in group exhibitions at Orange Regional Gallery and the ‘Print Profiles’ exhibition at Cowra Regional Gallery. However, this will be Jane’s first solo exhibition as a professional visual artist since completing her Diploma of Fine Arts through Western Institute of Tafe at the end of 2011.

Speeches from opening night.