Iris ORYSIA

While growing up in the Canadian prairies, under vast skies in full splendour and dark sky brilliance, Iris developed a contemplative nature. She recalls that in her teenage years, after a brief introduction to W.B. Yeats, waking after midnight, and with velvet journal in hand, attempting to scribe the awe and mystery of observing the night sky. This sense of wonder continued to follow her even throughout the busy seasons of career and raising children. Iris has continued to paint her imagery with words. Her works are derived through observation and enjoyment of her surroundings, both seen and unseen, including the substance of our emotions. Iris is a frequent visitor across the Canadian landscape, which offers inspiration geographically, from lakes, rivers, forests, plains and oceans, to the famed Rocky Mountains, and culturally across the nation as well. She also has a sense of humour which weaves its whimsical way into some of her work.

As a Canadian prairie poet, Iris’ work is also deeply inspired by creation and spirituality. Rooted in the vast landscapes of the prairies, her poetry seeks wisdom and offers surprising insights into the human experience. Iris’ verses often explore the interplay between nature, the cosmos, and the divine, inviting readers to contemplate the mysteries of life through her evocative and reflective language. Her unique voice resonates with a profound sense of wonder and reverence, making her a distinctive figure in contemporary Canadian literature.