If Natalie Plociennik could have it her way, she would live in a giant colorful bouncy castle. Growing up she developed a fear of sharp objects, due to her extreme propensity for bruising, feeling unsafe and exposed to the asperities of the urban environment. Her work is an expression of her personal utopia: a world with no edges and corners, fantastical lands made of voluptuous biomorphic forms that envelop you like a comforting cocoon. Plociennik’s idealistic visions first take shape on paper, through a process akin to automatic drawing. The ensuing compositions spring forth serendipitously, almost unconsciously. The images come, go, and transform organically.

Plociennik’s work is an act of kindness to herself. In her foolproof universes, she feels safe, loved and protected. This is not only true when it comes to her physical environment, but also the virtual one. Plociennik’s soft rounded structures contrast the sterile flatness of technology and the utilitarian nature of commercial illustrations. They invite us to sit comfortably and enjoy our surroundings, without any pressure or distraction. “I am often reflecting on my ability to give my presence and love to people and situations,” she explains. “I believe people need time alone to think, to feel, to reflect. I believe a full human experience is not a ‘flat’ experience, and I extend the yearning for that depth into my extensive biomorphic landscapes and forms.”

Plociennik holds a B.Sc. in Earth and Environmental Science from McMaster University in Hamilton and a High Honors Diploma in Fine Arts Studio from Centennial College in Toronto, both in Canada. She has exhibited extensively in Canadian galleries and received an Award of Excellence and scholarship from Centennial College’s School of Communications, Media, Arts, and Design. Alongside her artistic practice, she works as a graphic designer and acts as the Program Advisor for the Fine Arts Studio Program at Centennial College.