Bilbao-based Raisa Álava is a graduate of ceramics and history of art at the University of the Basque Country and post-graduate studies in illustration and comics at the ELISAVA Barcelona School of Design and Engineering. The artist works with drawing, graphic design, screen printing and ceramics. She deals with real and imaginary experiences, collective memory and random thoughts. Participant of numerous exhibitions, including the group show "Wall Between" at SC Gallery in Bilbao (2019). Her recent projects include magazine illustrations, solo shows, workshops and site specific installations.
Álava has been invited to Wrocław for a study visit as part of the AIR Wro programme. In 2019, a section of its summer edition is dedicated to the phenomenon of self-publishing. Alongside two other artists – Eneka Fernández and Irène Mélix – Álava will explore Wrocław’s independent circles and initiatives active in this field.
During her study visit on 15th and 16th June at Barbara Álava will run workshops on the making comic books, zines and art books - "Do it yourself! Do it Basque-style!", addressed especially to the individuals who are taking their first steps in this field. In the course of two days, the artist will present various examples of original publications, help to write a script, make illustrations and create a cover. Is it possible to design a page in a minute? According to Álava, you only need imagination to do this!