A CONVERSATION WITH SONJA B ZORNAT

Dive into the captivating world of Sonja B Zornat's artistry as she shares her creative journey and the stories woven within her thought-provoking pieces. In this exclusive interview for COMA, Sonja invites us to explore the interconnected themes of safety, vulnerability, and resilience through her evocative artwork.

Sonja's pieces, "A Dream Come", "Meaning of Life", and "You gave me cold heat...", offer a glimpse into her introspective exploration of domestic violence and the quest for security amidst life's uncertainties. Through subtle symbolism and striking textures, Sonja's work sparks dialogue and introspection, inviting viewers to engage with complex issues in their own unique way.

Join us as we delve into Sonja's artistic process, her use of symbolism, and her vision for contributing to broader societal conversations. Discover how her artistry navigates the delicate balance between personal expression and universal resonance, offering a compelling reflection on the human experience.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain insight into the mind of a rising artist whose work challenges, inspires, and resonates with audiences on a profound level.

The following interview has been edited and condensed.

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COMA: So Sonja, let's start with who you are and where you are in your artistic practice right now.

Sonja: Well, defining who I am is a bit of a challenge, but also not. My family is deeply artistic, and growing up, I practically lived in exhibitions. Initially, I thought art wasn't for me, but then I changed my mind. .

COMA: Could you introduce the pieces we're showcasing today? Are they part of a cohesive body of work, or were they conceptualized separately?

Sonja: Actually, no. "A Dream Come" and "Meaning of Life" emerged together, but "You gave me cold heat..." delves into a different realm, exploring domestic violence. While it's more overt in its theme, it still resonates with the others in a series-like manner.

COMA: Your works seem to evolve cohesively. Do you see a linear progression, or are you exploring different subjects?

Sonja: The themes are interconnected, albeit some pieces veer more distinctly in one direction. Over time, I've noticed how seemingly disparate works find harmony, even if they were created years apart.

While "You gave me cold heat..." may not directly align with the other two, its presence adds depth. I aim for subtlety in addressing themes, preferring to let the viewer interpret rather than dictate.

COMA: Let's delve into "Meaning of Life". It seems beds and bed frames hold significant symbolism in your work. Could you elaborate on their significance?

Sonja: Beds symbolize life's journey for me. They embody safety and comfort, but also vulnerability and turmoil. Even an empty bed tells a story—it's a canvas for interpretation, much like life itself.

COMA: Moving to "A Dream Come", the inclusion of dollhouse scenes prompts reflection on safety and home. What inspired this exploration?

Sonja: Creating a safe space has been a personal quest for me. The dollhouse represents this pursuit of security amidst life's uncertainties. It also highlights the prevalence of hidden struggles, such as domestic violence, which often go unnoticed.

COMA: Your work often addresses sensitive topics like domestic violence. How do you envision these pieces fitting into someone's home or collection?

Sonja: It's crucial for me not to impose my personal experiences onto the viewer. Art should provoke thought and conversation, even if uncomfortable. By prompting reflection, these pieces can foster greater awareness and empathy.

COMA: Do you believe your work contributes to the broader discourse on domestic violence?

Sonja: Absolutely. While I don't label exhibitions explicitly, the themes are implicit. It's about sparking dialogue and introspection. Each piece invites viewers to engage with these complex issues on their terms.

COMA: Shifting focus to technique, your use of textures is striking. Is this intentional or a result of your creative process?

Sonja: It's a bit of both. Experimenting with various mediums allows for richer storytelling that a single medium might not capture. When I choose materials and techniques, I choose it according to the mood and the story I want to convey.

COMA: Lastly, what's next for you in 2024?

Sonja: I'm taking a break from formal education to immerse myself in artistic exploration. My focus is on creating without constraints, honing my craft, and perhaps pursuing a master's degree down the line. I also have some upcoming exhibitions that I’m looking forward to.

COMA: Sounds like an exciting journey ahead. Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Sonja.

March, 2024 - COMA Editorial team