Natalia munro
In 2019, I began my journey into the realm of natural dyes, captivated by the rich hues they could create. As I delved deeper into my exploration, it was the unique process of indigo dyeing that truly captured my heart. The fact that indigo, in its raw form, does not manifest the color blue until it undergoes oxidation, felt like witnessing a magical transformation reminiscent of alchemy. It fascinated me that a simple green plant had the power to yield such intense blues, creating a striking beauty that further fueled my dedication to exploring the secrets of this ancient craft, and has since led me to study Japanese Indigo dyeing and its meticulous craftsmanship.
Japanese art, culture, and their mastery in textiles have had a profound influence on my work as an artist. Their expertise in this timeless art is truly awe-inspiring; the dedication and attention they devote to every detail is mirrored in my own practice, as I strive to approach my work with the same level of care. By incorporating Japanese techniques into my art, I am able to not only pay homage to their rich artistic heritage but also enrich my self-expression.
Patience is a key aspect of working with plants and nature, just as it is in the traditional Japanese art forms. We must work in harmony with the rhythm of nature, understanding that we cannot manipulate it to suit our immediate wishes. This philosophy resonates with me deeply and underscores the value of this virtue in both my creative process and in life as a whole. It is in this awareness that I find clarity and meaning, where the swirling hues mirror the emotions and experiences I process daily. Through dyeing, I am able to release and express myself, and in return, it grants me the space to reflect, rejuvenate, and gain perspective on life's continual fluctuations.
The province in China where my grandfather originated is renowned for its traditional indigo dyeing techniques. This personal connection through my heritage has undeniably shaped and influenced my work. The prevalent theme of migration within my family has found its way into my pieces. The experiences passed down from my ancestors, their stories of leaving behind familiar lands and embarking on uncharted territories, have deeply influenced my sense of identity and belonging. The journey into the unknown in search of home has become a recurring motif in my work.
As I evolve as an artist, I feel compelled to steer my work towards large installations where I aim to dissolve the barrier between the viewer and the art itself. The visitors are no longer excluded from the art as only the observer, but rather become part of the art, while sensing the traces of their own emotions and feelings within it. Life can often make us feel lost, but I want my art to be a source of relatability, a comforting reminder that others have walked similar paths.