Alexandra Zeigler

The way one looks at my work reveals more about themselves than the image in front of them. My series explores human relationships by representing their dynamics through theatrical motifs. I use vibrant color palettes paired with stark ink to create a lively foreground atmosphere, contrasting with the dark undertones in the background. This is meant to express contrast between what is seemingly happening within simple interactions versus what lies beyond plain view. There rests a subtle deception within a human’s intentions that boils down to a simple want and need. That kind of complexity, yet readability I hope to convey through delicate pen-work and layers of marker. My subjects range from dancers, to decorative fans, to chess boards and cards- all of which have been altered in color and in detail. They are drawn as if the viewer is looking through rose-tinted glasses, a lens that either reveals the truth or distorts it depending on how it is perceived.

For example, the piece, ‘solo game’ can be interpreted two opposing ways. The looming king chess piece behind the dancer can be seen as a darker force with power over an individual. This paints the girl figure out to be just a ‘pawn in a game’ where you could also see the performer as a strong opponent rather than a mere piece. Her billowing cape shows strength and control, a version where the king fades into its surrounding darkness behind the focal point.