Craft Conversations
‘Fragments of culture…’ is the result of a collaboration between Katherine Marmaras and Great Frames. Great Frames provided readymade frames setting the parameters for Katherine to work within. Katherine has then collated, abstracted and transformed items from her vast collection of remnant wallpapers and other decorative papers to create new works to fit within these set parameters. Abstractions of colours, familiar motifs and patterns from both the past and present have been used to create multiple layers of interest and focus.
Where do you go in Melbourne for inspiration?
For inspiration, I often visit an array of galleries including the NGV, Heide Museum of Modern Art or the Town Hall Gallery. I find that in such spaces there is always something remarkable and thought-provoking to see and reflect upon.
What are you reading OR listening to at the moment?
I always have more than one book on the go (a bit like my creative process - working on more than one project at any given time). I am currently reading 'CIRCE' by Madeline Miller and 'The Goldfinch' by Donna Tartt and am loving both of them!! Also, I am loving and dipping in and out of 'The Beauty of Everyday Things' by Soetsu Yanagi.
How would you describe your studio or making environment?
I am currently Artist in Residence at the Hawthorn Arts Centre until late October. Working in an old building which is architecturally beautiful makes for an inspiring environment. There is a lot going on in my workspace, including lots of collage material preparation and works in progress such as paper sculptures and photo drawings.
What is your dream craft collaboration - if history and geography and money was no barrier?
I would love to create an installation work for the MAXXI National Museum of XXI Century Arts in Rome, Italy.
What other Craft Cubed events are you excited about?
I am looking forward to seeing Christina Darras' Bottle People Project develop during her residency at Craft Victoria. Also, the Reel to Reel Film Festival screenings later in the festival program.
