Dates

• Existence: Born c1970

Biography

Soraya Smithson is an artist whose arts practice is diverse. She produces prints, ceramics, collage, books, sewn pieces, paintings and other objects. However the mainstay of her practice is drawing in its broadest sense, using scissors, needles, tin snips, fretsaw as well as pencil, ink, paint and clay, making shapes and forming space within a line.

She is interested in the daily rituals of life and the relationship of the domestic environment with the outside world. She creates environments inspired by and referencing other artists and literature. Narrative and story-telling are important elements in her work and creating works that respond to locations. She was shown at the Architectural Biennale in Venice and has work in the V&A's permanent collection.

Soraya has always been fascinated by paper peep shows, dioramas and paper theatres and she has used this opportunity to play with this form of construction. She also loves the way the fair occupies the streets of Stamford. ‘It is very magical as the rides are set up directly in front of houses, shops and businesses. The juxtaposition of bright lights, loud music and glaring colour is astonishing against the rather sedate sandstone Georgina market townscape. For one week the fair completely transforming Stamford.