Sternberg’s artworks are characterised by their layered compositions, abstract geometric forms, and innovative use of materials. Combining delicate ink washes with architectural markings, X-ray film, paper, and neon elements, she creates works that appear to float between structure and spontaneity. Her compositions explore the human desire for space, freedom, and connection, drawing parallels between the openness of natural landscapes and the search for expansiveness within ourselves. Through overlapping fragments, translucent surfaces, and expressive movement, Sternberg invites viewers to discover beauty in complexity, imperfection, and the relationships between seemingly separate elements.
Tanya Sternberg’s artistic practice explores the relationship between space, movement, and the human experience. Her abstract compositions combine loose ink washes, intricate architectural lines, geometric shapes, and layered materials to create a sense of depth and expansiveness. By incorporating unconventional materials such as obsolete X-ray film, translucent overlays, neon paper, and pins, Sternberg creates dynamic compositions in which fragmented forms intersect and overlap. Her work reflects the idea that beauty can be found in imperfection, movement, and the unexpected connections between different elements.
Born in East London in 1977, Sternberg lives and works in Cape Town.
She studied at the Ogilvy and Mather School of Advertising before establishing a career in graphic design. In 2005, she founded her own graphic design company, Ink Design, and went on to work across numerous magazine publications, including Sports Illustrated, InStyle, and Time Inc Australia.
Although she had always painted, Sternberg made the decision to pursue her art practice full-time following the birth of her third child. Her background in graphic design continues to influence her work through its structured compositions, repeated marks, and considered use of form.
Sternberg has developed a distinct artistic practice alongside her established career in graphic design. Her work has also reached a national audience through a separate commercial art range produced for Weylandts Home Stores. Her body of work, Chasing Space, explores the search for physical and emotional expansiveness through abstract forms, architectural references, and layered materials.
Tanya Sternberg’s artistic practice explores the relationship between space, movement, and the human experience. Her abstract compositions combine loose ink washes, intricate architectural lines, geometric shapes, and layered materials to create a sense of depth and expansiveness. By incorporating unconventional materials such as obsolete X-ray film, translucent overlays, neon paper, and pins, Sternberg creates dynamic compositions in which fragmented forms intersect and overlap. Her work reflects the idea that beauty can be found in imperfection, movement, and the unexpected connections between different elements.
Born in East London in 1977, Sternberg lives and works in Cape Town.
She studied at the Ogilvy and Mather School of Advertising before establishing a career in graphic design. In 2005, she founded her own graphic design company, Ink Design, and went on to work across numerous magazine publications, including Sports Illustrated, InStyle, and Time Inc Australia.
Although she had always painted, Sternberg made the decision to pursue her art practice full-time following the birth of her third child. Her background in graphic design continues to influence her work through its structured compositions, repeated marks, and considered use of form.
Sternberg has developed a distinct artistic practice alongside her established career in graphic design. Her work has also reached a national audience through a separate commercial art range produced for Weylandts Home Stores. Her body of work, Chasing Space, explores the search for physical and emotional expansiveness through abstract forms, architectural references, and layered materials.
“The beauty lies in the dance between all these fragments.”
