Art and Cræft: a Philosophy

Artist Statement

My artistic practice has been shaped by my study of archaeology. I am inspired by traditional ways of making, by folk and vernacular technologies, by the construction of identity through the creation of craft, by ancient and historical motifs, and more.  

Vernacular craftsmanship is the source of my most enduring inspiration: the term refers to handcrafted goods, arts, objects, and structures that are made by local folk using traditional methods and native materials and knowing, implementing skills that were often passed down through generations. Vernacular goods are vessels for cultural identity that marry concepts of functionality and beauty.

Vernacular items embodes sustainability, environmental adaptation, and unique character. Perhaps more importantly, vernacular ways of making have helped subcultures maintain community identity under or within oppressive colonial regimes, serving as powerful touchstones of identity during times of cultural stress or subversion and as overt or covert resistance to assimilation.

Right now, I use my art practice to examine the ever-changing relationship between of technology, humanity, and the natural world. In particular, I explore themes such as women's work, community and communities of practice, environment, thrift, conservation, home, make/mend cycles and fallow/restorative periods, mostly through textiles. I aim to blur the line between functionality and decoration. 

 I explore textiles as objects that are foundational to- but also metaphorical of- humanity and central to the human experience, from deep antiquity.