Amanta Scott: The Faces of Tikkun Olam

ABOUT THE EXHIBITION

Canadian-born, I recently discovered I come from over ten generations of human rights activists, philosophers, rabbis, artists and refugees— engaging with questions about identity, sexuality, spirituality and social change. Encapsulating our shared values, and evolving from my project Eyeing Medusa (currently at Orillia Museum of Art & History) Tikkun Olam is an exhibition of outstanding individuals who exemplify the concept of repairing the world— individuals who are either my ancestors or friends thereof, or simply wonderful people who have touched my heart and contributed to making the world a better place.
 
An encaustic painting evolves through successive layers of molten beeswax, each fused with a torch or iron. An active partner in my process, beeswax asserts itself texturally and sculpturally as I paint, layer, fuse, scrape back, and re-work. This medium also embodies the multiple layers of meaning and symbolism in my work
 
I paint faces— recognizable yet abstracted, close-up: so we look into the eyes without distractions. By avoiding everything typically used to objectify people, I aim to show what remarkable individuals they are. Each painting references pages on my website illuminated with relevant historical art masterpieces, galleries worldwide, and an array of community resources. I aim to shift perspectives and change historically toxic narratives by focusing on respect, empowerment and self-actualization. 

ABOUT THE ARTIST 

Through encaustic paintings; interactive sculpture and audio/video installations; and workshops, Amanta Scott addresses urgent contemporary social issues. She has exhibited and performed in art galleries, museums, theatres, and festivals throughout Asia, North America and Europe including: National Gallery of Canada; Orillia Museum of Art & History; Yilan Performing Arts Center, Taiwan; Singapore International Arts Festival; Canadian Embassy in Tokyo; Edmonton Art Gallery; World Trade Centre(s), Taiwan and Barcelona; Royal Ontario Museum; Art Gallery of Ontario; Art Gallery of Algoma; Thunder Bay Art Gallery; Art Gallery of Peterborough; MacLaren Art Centre; Robert McLaughlin Gallery; Justina M Barnicke Gallery; Miles Nadal Gallery, and Nuit Blanche Toronto.  

The Miles Nadal JCC, 750 Spadina Ave 

March 1-29, 2023 

Opening Reception March 1, 5-7pm

For more information: Deanna Di Lello deannad@mnjcc.org.