Anna Strzałkowska

Zine 2 - Greetings from Glasgow

How would you describe your profession?

I like to think of myself as an artist who loves people, multiculturalism, and creativity. I also see myself as a cultural storyteller, using my art to share narratives and experiences of migration.

What’s your country of origin, and what brought you to Scotland?

I’m originally from Poland and made the big move to Scotland in 2006. Like many migrants, I came to Scotland seeking new opportunities, both personally and professionally. My family and I were drawn to the country’s welcoming nature and believed it would be a great place to start afresh.

As an artist, what medium and formats do you use?

I love working with a variety of media - ink, watercolour, acrylics, print, mixed media techniques, and digital design. I enjoy experimenting with textures and different forms, often combining traditional methods with modern technology to create layered, visually compelling pieces. My art takes many forms, from prints and illustrations to zines and posters. I also use found materials like worn boards, old calendars, and photographs. My favourite colour combination is sepia and blue – they’re always the first colours to run out in my supplies!

Has your experience of migration influenced your art?

Migration has had a huge influence on my art. The themes of identity, belonging, and the emotional challenges of leaving my homeland often appear in my works as part of my experiences and emotions. I often explore the balance between staying connected to Poland and establishing new roots in Scotland. This duality comes through in my art, using contrasting colours, fragmented images, and abstract forms that reflect the blending of cultures.

In your view, does being a migrant artist influence how your art is seen in Scotland and the UK?

I believe being a migrant adds an interesting layer to how I create my works and how they are perceived. I like to connect with the themes of displacement and identity and I appreciate the cultural fusion. The migrant perspective can challenge traditional art concepts, offering fresh insights that highlight diverse backgrounds and stories.

What is your zine poster artwork about? What medium did you use and why?

My zine poster tells the story of two hands belonging to individuals from different backgrounds, both seeking a sense of belonging in a new place. Their paths intersect meaningfully in a shared space in Scotland. One person longs for the warmth and laughter of family and friends, reminiscing about joyful moments, while the other misses the comforting sunshine of their home country. I traced both my hand and my friend’s on translucent parchment, adding layers and textures to express these emotions. I worked with watercolours, pencil, and fine liner, and even incorporated scraps from previous works, symbolising the connection between past and present.

What elements of your cultural/ethnic heritage, if any, have you noticed in Scotland?

I’ve noticed many Polish influences in Scotland! There’s the Polish Sikorski Club and the Polish Saturday School, where my children studied for four years and where I volunteered. We also have Polish shops and bakeries, and cultural festivals that celebrate our heritage. Additionally, services offered in Polish and Polish community organisations help us stay connected to our roots. These spaces create a sense of belonging for Polish migrants, allowing us to maintain our culture while integrating into Scottish life.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your art, experience of migration, or heritage?

Certainly! My migration journey has taught me resilience and adaptability, which have profoundly shaped my art. Navigating different cultures and discovering my identity along the way has been a huge inspiration. I’m excited to continue exploring the migrant experience through my art, shining a light on stories that resonate with many of us but often go untold.