RAE HANZLIK
ABOUT
Artist Statement
My work often centers on human expression and emotion. Having begun my artistic journey as a caricature artist, I have long been drawn to figurative work and the narrative potential of the human form. I believe that humans offer an infinite range of interpretations, and this idea consistently informs my practice. To me, humans embody some of the most compelling and complex stories, and my work seeks to explore that depth.
Exploration also plays a significant role in my process. I work across multiple mediums including digital painting, acrylic, and watercolor to create illustrations that often incorporate subtle or overt references to well known mythologies and elements of popular culture. My palette often leans toward bright, dramatic colors, even when the subject matter is more serious. I find a piece becomes more intriguing when its tone and presentation intentionally contradict one another.
My sculptural work, particularly in ceramics, further extends my interest in human dynamics and expressive forms; while creating chainsaw sculptures has allowed me to shift focus from the output of a piece and center more on the process of creating.
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Biography
Rae Hanzlik is a multimedia artist from the Black Hills of South Dakota whose practice investigates the complexities of the human experience and the subtle, often peculiar nuances of daily life. Her work is grounded in the idea of exploration, using a diverse range of tools and materials to pursue unique visuals and conceptual possibilities.
Hanzlik is currently completing her fourth year at Black Hills State University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a minor in commercial art. Her artistic foundation began in high school, creating caricatures at a local zoo, an experience that continues to inform her style and interest in cartoon-based aesthetics. She further developed her craft as a finisher for several chainsaw artists and, in 2022, began an apprenticeship with regional master chainsaw artist Jarrett Dahl.
In addition to her studio practice, Hanzlik works at Black Hills State University’s Marketing and Communications Office as a graphic designer. She also served as the lead visual artist for PONDER magazine, providing illustrations and design work that reflect her evolving artistic vision.