Natasha Hoffman

Studio Artist

My work is fanciful.

And sometimes grim. Dark, yes---not to suggest evil, but rather unexplored territory. Perhaps, in my hypothetical apocalyptic world, government and economic structures have collapsed, buildings have burnt down, and once-thriving cities are empty, but it’s not always a sad place. There are still tea parties, playful cats, and dancing girls, depicted in a color palette akin to dilapidated architecture. To me, the earthy tones feel nostalgic and bittersweet, like recalling a memory that is partially faded but will never completely disappear. I imagine the viewer at the edge of a world enshrouded in mystery, perhaps giving them pause before proceeding, but insatiable curiosity beckons them to step inside the gates and see what there is to see. My preferred medium is acrylic, pen, collage, or some combination thereof.

In one way or another, I have been creating my whole life.

As a tiny human, I drew pictures of my imaginary friends, and would often engage in meaningful discussions with them. I later gravitated towards performance, which led me to study acting and eventually costume and makeup design at Utah Valley University. Since graduating with my BA in Theatre Arts, I have expanded my pursuits into film making, running marathons, triathlon, cycling, and indulging in craft beer. My day job has me teaching visual art and dance classes at TURN City Center for the Arts, a creative learning space for adults with developmental disabilities. Salt Lake City, Utah is my home.