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Sian Lester Sian Lester points to her love of travel and her multicultural upbringing as large influences on her art. Born in South Wales in the United Kingdom, Sian's formative years were spent in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She recalls creating art at a very young age. "My Mum tells me that I used to love drawing squiggles and insisted that each squiggle was drawn on a fresh piece of paper." Now, while traveling, Sian records her experiences by taking photographs, sketching and collecting unusual papers, textiles and ceramics. "I love to visit colorful markets to pick up bargains to draw from and be inspired by." She combines her love for Eastern culture, architecture and food with her western eye to create her artwork. She feels strongly influenced by nature, organic forms, simple fluid lines and shapes and unique textures. To keep her work fresh, simple and uncontrived, Sian likes to work impulsively. She uses a variety of papers and fabrics and has a special fondness for Chinese brush-painting paper and handmade Japanese grass papers. She even enjoys making her own paper. Her media is varied as well, ranging from purchased emulsion and enamel paints to hand-mixed paints and dyes. "I like to build up subtle layers and washes and finally to age the paper to give it a softer worn feel." Metallic highlights give her work an extra touch. Holding a degree in textile design from London's Chelsea College of Art and Design, Sian also works as a freelance textile designer. She exhibits her work in London, Europe, the U.S., Dubai and South Africa.

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