My name is Samantha Wojciechowicz but I go by Samantha Woj in my art practice. I am a physically disabled Canadian visual artist. I was born with a rare genetic disorder called Ectrodactyly, a condition characterized by the absence or malformation of the fingers and toes. In 2021, I received an MA in Creative Art Therapies, Art Therapy option. In 2019, I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Concordia University. These degrees helped me gain a greater understanding of both the material chosen and physical process involved in creating an artwork.
My creative process is influenced by my love of sports. For over 14 years, sports provided me with a place to go and develop my social skills. It also provided me with an outlet to express myself, build confidence and challenge my abilities. Summer 2021, I decided to channel my love for sports into my other love, art.
The painting process involves using acrylic paint on paper, carboard or canvas. Initial marks are made using sports equipment. These marks are made to illustrate athlete’ movement, their feelings and the sport itself. Imprints are made from throwing, rolling and tapping the sports equipment on a canvas. These marks embody the active and fleeting movement that occur in sports and captures and holds a space to reflect the unseen marks made in those moments. In turn, imprinting these moments to be immortalized and reflected upon and embody the sense of community and love one can experienced either by playing or watching sports.
