How does our connection to resources inform how we create? What does it mean to imagine a future where we can make sustainably - and uplift everyone involved in the creation of textiles and the images they depict? In this episode of Material Culture, we talk with weaver, woodworker and painter Stephen Hamilton, who forages from all kinds of different sources for his eclectic work. He shares with us about his experience in Nigeria with Yoruba religion and its affect on his work, as well as natural dyeing and the impact he hopes to have through his art. Topics discussed include: agency of those being portrayed by art and culture, creating with a limited budget, the importance of remembrance and ancestors, and being resourceful by treasuring the materials you use.
You can find more of Stephen's work at his instagram @theartofstephenhamilton, or his website itanproject.com.
The Material Culture podcast explores narratives of weaving, (text)iles, art, manufacturing, history, and the people, workers and artists whose stories create the framework and understanding of living with cloth. Material Culture is produced by the yarn shop, textile studio and weaving school, Weaver House. If you have a question, comment or other feedback - you can leave a message for the podcast at weaverhouseco.com/podcast.
This month's episode is sponsored by Wild Hand, a Philadelphia-based yarn and fiber shop. Wild Hand is a community that believes in the magic of fiber craft: to bring together people who share a vision of an imaginative and just world. Now through the end of March use code MATERIALCULTURE for 15% off your first order at wild-hand.com. You can also find them on Instagram and Facebook.
Thanks to Philadelphia-based musician Michael Myers for the use of his song, Weave off the album This is Only Light.