"Family Tree of Adhesions" Artwork

Through my artwork, I explore the deeply personal intersections of identity, disability, and resilience. My pieces, ranging from fiber art to digital creations, reflect my journey with Spina Bifida and the medical challenges it has brought, including laments of loss. Each artwork embodies a narrative of suffering, transforming into an invitation for viewers to consider the complexities of embracing one’s “normal.” Techniques such as katazome, screen printing, photography, and digital layering allow me to express these intricate themes and an ongoing dialogue with my physicality. My hope is that my art resonates with others navigating their normal, finding beauty within imperfection. Vanessa Vanek is a fiber, digital media artist, and art educator originally from Lawrence, Kansas. She earned her BFA in textile design and a graduate teaching certificate in visual art education from the University of Kansas. She has extensive teaching experience, including high and middle school visual art and design in international arenas such as Thailand, Korea, and East Africa. She is currently based in Shanghai.