Meet Ruth Poniarski, a passionate artist whose journey began in the realm of architecture, earning a Bachelor of Architecture from Pratt Institute in 1982. However, her heart yearned for a more expressive medium, leading her to embrace painting in 1988. This shift allowed Ruth to challenge her imagination and develop a distinct style that weaves myths, culture, philosophy, and literature into her surreal paintings, offering a myriad of interpretations to her viewers. Moreover, in 1995, she enhanced her art by crafting thought-provoking poems that accompany each painting, adding another layer of depth to her creative expression.
Ruth Poniarski’s journey in art started with architecture. Studying at Pratt Institute, she honed her skills in structure and design. But as time passed, Ruth realized that architecture, while fulfilling in many ways, didn’t fully satiate her creative hunger. She sought a medium that allowed her to explore deeper emotional and philosophical themes. This realization led her to painting in 1988, where she found the freedom to express her innermost thoughts and imaginings.
Transitioning from architecture to painting, Ruth Poniarski brought with her a keen eye for detail and a structural sensibility. Her paintings are not just images but intricate stories woven together with elements of myth, culture, philosophy, and literature. Each piece invites viewers to embark on a journey, exploring multiple layers of meaning and interpretation.
One of her works, “Dream,” is a 48″x58″ acrylic on canvas painting. It is accompanied by a poem that shares the same title:
Dream
Virgin geese travel in unison across a dark pond.
The Sylph sleeps to awake the man of her dreams.
She wares the tree of knowing.
Surrounded by the leaves of the Fall.
The storm coming, is the harbinger of the world to become.
The cause of energy flow, webbing the poles of communication around love.
In 1995, Ruth added another dimension to her artwork by creating poems to accompany each painting. This practice not only deepened the narrative aspect of her work but also provided a unique interplay between visual and literary arts. The poems act as keys, unlocking new interpretations and adding richness to the viewing experience.
For instance, in “Dream,” the poem adds a surreal and almost mystical layer to the painting. The imagery of virgin geese traveling in unison and the Sylph sleeping to awaken a man of her dreams evokes a sense of ethereal beauty and longing. The tree of knowing and the impending storm suggest themes of knowledge, transformation, and the unpredictability of life. This combination of visual art and poetry allows viewers to delve into a multi-sensory exploration of Ruth’s creative world.
Ruth Poniarski’s style is characterized by its surreal and dreamlike quality. Her paintings often feature fantastical elements that blend seamlessly with real-world references. This fusion creates a sense of otherworldliness, inviting viewers to suspend their disbelief and engage with the art on a deeper level.
Her architectural background is evident in the meticulous composition and structure of her paintings. Each element is carefully placed to create a balanced and harmonious whole. Yet, within this structure, there is a fluidity and spontaneity that speaks to Ruth’s imaginative spirit.
Ruth draws inspiration from a wide range of sources, including mythology, culture, philosophy, and literature. These influences are evident in the rich symbolism and intricate narratives of her paintings. She explores themes of identity, transformation, and the human experience, often through a surreal and symbolic lens.
Her work encourages viewers to reflect on their own lives and experiences, to see beyond the surface and uncover the deeper meanings hidden within. This ability to provoke thought and inspire introspection is a hallmark of Ruth’s artistic practice.
Ruth Poniarski’s journey from architecture to painting has been one of exploration and self-discovery. Her unique style, characterized by its surreal and dreamlike quality, invites viewers to embark on their own journeys of interpretation and reflection. By weaving together elements of myth, culture, philosophy, and literature, and pairing her paintings with thought-provoking poems, Ruth creates a rich and multi-layered artistic experience.
Through her work, Ruth Poniarski challenges us to look beyond the surface and explore the deeper meanings hidden within. Her art is a testament to the power of creativity and the endless possibilities that arise when we dare to follow our hearts and embrace the unknown.
