Batik, a process that originated in India, is a unique wax-resist and dye technique that is traditionally employed on fabric. Ziya Tarapore applies batik to wood, experimenting with the ways that maple, birch, basswood and pine absorb many applications of wax and dye, creating vibrant, layered colors. The artist especially enjoys working with bowls, maintaining that the outside is just as interesting as the inside.

Ziya draws inspiration from the hues, textures and shapes in the garden at her home in Apple Valley, MN. Her subject matter is most often botanical – larger-than-life blooms and the Tree of Life are recurring images. She states that “the fusion of American and Asian thoughts, and the challenge of this unforgiving technique, inspires endless possibilities.”

Wishing to become familiar with the Minneapolis-St. Paul arts community after arriving in Minnesota in 2002, Ziya applied to the mentor program at the Textile Center in Minneapolis. During a protege year with weaver Kelly Marshall, she explored more traditional painting on flat wooden panels. Since then, her work has been featured at Minnesota Craft Council and American Craft Council events and she has been serving informally as a mentor to other emerging women artists. In the Twin Cities, Ziya’s bowls, plates and platters are exclusive to The Grand Hand.