Laurel Terlesky

Credit: Andrea Helleman

Laurel Terlesky, an interdisciplinary Canadian artist, earned a Master of Fine Arts Degree in International Creative Practice from Transart Institute and a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of Victoria (Canada). Her diverse body of work has been showcased internationally on-screen — including television, large-scale projection, and the internet — as well as in exhibitions. Terlesky has been recognized with residencies in Spain, Germany, Greece, Thailand, the U.S.A., and across Canada. Her artistic endeavors have been generously supported by esteemed organizations such as the Canada Council for the Arts, B.C. Arts Council, and various local community initiatives.

Her practice delves into the intersection of technology, communication, and human relationships, often exploring the subtle nuances of tactile encounters. Through installations incorporating touch-activated audio, motion-triggered lights, objects, and drawings, Terlesky examines the porous boundary between the body and its environment, prompting contemplation on embodiment, memory, and the nature of presence. By bridging perceived gaps and challenging conventional dichotomies, Terlesky's work seeks to repair communication disconnects and stimulate deeper introspection into the human experience.

Image credits: Curtesy of the artist

Current Art/Research Interest:

Laurel Terlesky's current artistic research interests span two projects: "Memory Boxes" and "Points of Departure." "Memory Boxes" explores Laurel's reflections on leaving Squamish, BC after 15 years. Through research on old photographs and collective memory, she aims to uncover fabrications within her memories and depict environmental changes in tangible memory boxes.

By exhibiting these works, Laurel prompts dialogue on ecological balance and resource stewardship. In "Points of Departure," Laurel delves into avian resilience amidst climate upheaval, decoding the language of bird signs. Inspired by regional avian residents, her artistic output includes drawings, sculptures, and audio tracks, inviting viewers to contemplate human-animal interconnectedness. Through both projects, Laurel contributes to a broader conversation on environmental conservation and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

More about the artist: https://laurelterlesky.ca/