Having moved from Romania to South Woodford, artist Andrea Timis reflects on her journey through colour and culture and the joy and connection she’s found by joining Woodford Arts Group
Art has always been a powerful force in my life; a language through which I’ve expressed emotion, memory and identity. Growing up in Romania with Hungarian roots, I chose the artistic path early, eventually pursuing formal studies in textile arts. My studies gave me a strong foundation in design, colour theory and traditional techniques, such as batik, which still influence my work today.
My journey took an unexpected turn when life brought me to the UK. Starting anew in a different culture came with many challenges: learning a new system, building a new network and finding a new sense of belonging. It was during the lockdown that I reconnected deeply with art, not just for myself, but through nurturing my child’s creativity. This period of artistic exploration and bonding led to our participation in a local exhibition at the Sir James Hawkey Hall in 2024, where my son’s school selected his artworks to be displayed. That event became a turning point. It introduced me to the Woodford Arts Group (WAG), a vibrant and supportive community of local artists. I was honoured to become a member, and through this group, I’ve found both inspiration and connection. WAG values diversity and I’m proud to contribute my unique background and artistic voice to this collective.
As a textile artist, I’m drawn to texture and rhythm. Traditionally, I worked with batik (a dyeing technique) on silk, using wax to create fine, delicate lines. Though my studio space is limited, I’ve adapted by working on small canvases using watercolour, inks and acrylics. The signature fine lines remain; a visual thread tying my past and present work together. These lines offer a modern aesthetic and have become central to my artistic identity.
My pieces are often decorative, reflecting my background in textile design, and they follow a rhythm, whether in the layering of colours or the movement of brushstrokes. I gravitate towards complementary colour schemes, though I also enjoy exploring unexpected combinations. Occasionally, I incorporate animals or portraits, always aiming to evoke a sense of emotion or narrative. For me, art is a form of therapy, a way to centre myself and find peace through creativity.
Being part of WAG has given me a platform to share my work, connect with other creatives and contribute to the artistic life of the community. I’m excited about what lies ahead, both as an individual artist and as a proud member of this dynamic group.
To view more of Andrea’s work, visit linesandart.com
For more information on Woodford Arts Group, visit swvg.co.uk/wag
