Yiriane Kahn

I am a visual artist whose work embodies my multicultural upbringing and brings forth an abstract representation of this journey. Born in the Dominican Republic to German/Argentine and Dominican parents, I spent my formative years traveling throug...

I am a visual artist whose work embodies my multicultural upbringing and brings forth an abstract representation of this journey. Born in the Dominican Republic to German/Argentine and Dominican parents, I spent my formative years traveling throughout Latin America and Europe before pursuing a fine arts degree in Barcelona, Spain. My pieces reflect the vibrant energy of the countries I have lived in and elicit introspection as the viewer contemplates the impact that environment plays in the development of one’s identity. I seek to capture the movement and the connection between spaces I have inhabited through the use of mixed mediums including painting, collage, sculpture, recycled cardboard, pigment, and ink. In doing so, I create pieces that evoke a deep sense of respect for the earth and its geographic features. Abstract forms capture the temperamental nature of water, the angularity of stone, and the softness of air. I highlight the mineral richness of Latin America through the use of gold and silver leaf; a testament to the artistic tradition of the region from a historic perspective. By exploring the impact that environment plays on the development of identity, I establish that this process is ultimately crucial to developing a sense of freedom.