Kara Zuzu: December 2022
Kara "Zuzu" Zupancic received her BA in Studio Art and Art Education from Saint Vincent College in 2007. She continued her education at Edinboro University and earned her MA in Art Education in 2012. She maintained a professional career as an arts educator while pursuing her work as a professional artist.
As a Pittsburgh-based ceramic sculpture artist, Zuzu makes both smaller, functional art (like mugs with hand-sculpted embellishment) as well as large sculptures. Her one-of-a-kind sculptures are inspired by animals, nature, and narratives from her lived experiences. To further deepen her skills, Zuzu attends workshops held by a variety of independent studio artists. She also traveled to Bali, Indonesia to complete a workshop with artist Allesandro Gallo. Most recently, Kara completed an artist residency at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. She connects with other sculptors through her membership in the Pittsburgh Society of Sculptors, Pittsburgh Center for Arts and Media, and Associated Artists of Pittsburgh.
Animals and the natural world drive my work. Intentionally chosen, I rely on the calming energy of animals to tell humanistic and personal stories. My sculptures serve as a symbolic mirror, drawing you in, and asking you to look beyond initial impressions for interpretation or perhaps guidance. As in the wild, my sculptures are delicate and require a gentle approach, with patience being rewarded. Animals are a non-threatening way to engage in an experience of awakening and self-reflection.
UPCOMING PROJECTS & NEWS
”In the past few months I have transitioned from a community studio to a home studio. Aside from a few commissions, my next goal is to embrace my new space and work on some new projects and ideas. I was recently accepted into the Pittsburgh Creative Corp and plan on exploring public art in 2023. I will also be featured in a solo show at the Stop Watch Gallery in Greensburg fall 2023.”
