Artist Statement
In my work, I often use found objects, low-cost materials, and paper to create puppet shows inspired by the little critters we see— or don't see— around us. I enjoy exploring the personification of animals and the reflections of ourselves that they reveal. Through studying behaviours and rituals, I’ve come to see that there's a wealth of knowledge about animals and bugs that show us that they have their own intelligence. So, why shouldn’t they have their own stories?
In my shows, critters big and small have jobs, friends, fears, goals, and experience their own flavours of adversity. By using non-traditional stage settings and low-cost materials, I also like to encourage audiences to try tiny-puppet making themselves and bring to life the weird little rattling around in their own imaginations.
Each puppet show in this display is paired with supporting items that highlight its inspirations. For my critter shows, I’ve drawn ideas from hidden frogs, the depths of the La Brea tar pits, and the small planes my grandfather made.
Artist Biography
Tia DeLauria is a multidisciplinary artist based in Calgary, Alberta. She holds a degree in Visual Arts from the University of Ottawa, and pursued further studies in Digital Design at Bow Valley College. Tia works with a variety of mediums to explore her relationships with nature, feminism, and imagination, using an odd sense of humour, the miracle of storytelling, and the art of puppetry.
Instagram: @tiadelauria