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Tattooed children and curious creatures inhabit magical world of Seattle artist Anne Siems

The ethereal exhibition "Wild Child" is on display at Patricia Rovzar Gallery in Downtown Seattle. #k5evening

SEATTLE — A new gallery exhibition in Seattle uses magical realism to connect each viewer with their inner child.

“Wild Child” at Patricia Rovzar Gallery showcases the latest work by German-born artist Anne Siems.

"These portraits are a lot about self-inquiry,” she said.

She moved to Seattle 30 years ago, and her love for the natural world comes through in every piece.

But the series of paintings focuses on children – an examination of Siems’ childhood and, by extension, anyone else who sees them.

"Obviously we're not all done growing yet,” Siems said. "Once you turn 50, I think certain things are like - you either can look at them now or you don't, but there will be a consequence if you don't look at them."

She describes the portraits as “magical realism.” Girls are seen standing in wooded areas, and most of them have tattoos -- representing experiences and stories that imprint during childhood. Many have their eyes averted from the viewer, and one is wearing headphones to represent introspection.

Credit: KING 5

"Little parts are recognizable, some are strange,” Siems said. "I like for work to do this tightrope walk between beauty and terror or light and shadow, because that's really the balance we're all trying to obtain."

There are also smaller figures in the background, reflecting imaginary friends or stuffed animals that give children comfort.

"I think we're all these little seeds (that need space) to blossom, and not a lump of clay that needs to be molded,” Siems said. “I hope that people find their own magic again and their own radiant self that is completely still within them. We all need to be reminded what beautiful perfectly imperfect beings we are."

“Wild Child” is on display through the end of March.

Patricia Rovzar Gallery is located at 1111 1st Avenue and is open Tuesday – Saturday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

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