February 2, 1973, Born Genoa, Nebraska in a small farming community. 1973 to 1991 lived and worked in a farm setting. 1991 Went to Creighton University, Omaha Nebraska and focused on art, with mentors Littleton Alston, John Thien, Jerry Horning, Bob Bosco. 1997 Graduated Creighton with emphasis in sculpting. 1997-99 Worked at the Bemis Center for Contemporary Art Omaha, Nebraska where she acquired knowledge for the workings of the professional art world. 1999-2000 Went to graduate school at the Maryland Institute College of Art, in Baltimore Maryland. 2002- Traveled to Europe to research European art. 2000- Present Moved back to Omaha Nebraska to rebuild portfolio. Currently living and working in Omaha.

* Photo by Adrew Baron

“To covey absurdity, horror, humor and pain, while also grasping at snatches of beauty and pleasure made sweeter by their improbability.  Why do I use the human form, because I have no desire to play games with deconstruction and appropriation. I wish to retain an emotional connection to art that I feel has been lost in contemporary art of today.”-Art in America, July 1999

 Artist Statement

Yanna Synovia Ramaekers

Through out my life I have pushed and at times struggled to create sculpture which is interesting, exciting, and most importantly evokes an emotion in the viewer.  I feel emotion is the heart of most art.  Art lacking an emotional connection or reaction, transitions into simple decoration.  My work is meant to “touch” the heart of the viewer and stir the soul.  My intention is to draw them into a world far removed from that which they are accustomed to.  I strive to awaken a different way of thinking, instill a moment of peace, contemplation or reflection.

             The drive behind my work is rooted in past memories of a darker time.  These emotions transcend into my work.  I deal with the female figure in all its beauty and diversity.  I then contrast her form with the threats and evils that exist in our society.  Violence, specifically domestic violence and abuse, is unfortunately a part of our society.  Having personal experience with the latter, I create sculptures which reflect my personal pains and those of others whom I research.   In the end, I tell a story through sculpture.  Pain, love, fear and growth are rendered into each piece.

            The pieces I am currently producing are predominantly bronze.  Sizes vary from 3-14 inches in height and 4-6 inches in width.  However, no size restrictions are implied or encouraged. 

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