Samantha Castellas
I currently use the traditional craft practice of latch-hooking as a basis for creating a series of sculptural works which speak to domesticity in a fine art narrative. To do this, I first explore the definitions of art and craft, how they differ and how they potentially intersect, and how my work can utilise typically craft objects and methods to create fine art works. I then explore the importance of colour and materials in my works. Investigations into colour theory assist in understanding the psychological perspectives in my use of colour. Examination of the use and combination of mixed craft-related materials with repurposed found objects helps to link fine art to the domestic themes in my work.
The word ‘domestic’ entails both a positive, happier side connected to childhood and domestic bliss and a scarier, negative side connected to domestic abuse, violence and secrets. My darker works are stripped back and have little colour to convey the stark reality of their subject matter. In comparison, the happier works are more playful and have a greater range of colours. Adding to this binary representation of domesticity is a third category of works combining positivity and negativity through colour and a sense of the uncanny to represent the speed and nature of change. All these elements of domesticity aim to create links with the viewers’ personal experiences of home life and childhood.
Washing Day, 2020
Plastic laundry basket, yarn, wool, cables, synthetic materials, cable ties, nylon rope, fabric, bubble wrap and tin foil
250mm x 700mm x 650mm
Response, 2020
Yarn, coloured paper, cable tie, plastic bag and string on used pill packet
10mm x 200mm x 105mm
Untitled, 2020
Yarn, coloured paper, cable ties, plastic bags, fabric, chain, synthetic hair and found objects on pedestal fan frame
1300mm x 700mm x 300mm
“Don’t Touch That”, Dirty, 2020
Rubber gloves, PVC tubing, synthetic hair, plastic bags, acrylic paint, wool and hot glue
90mm x 820mm x 430mm
Dad’s Spot, 2020
Fabric, plastic bags, natural hair, cables, chicken wire, trim
400mm x 320mm x 230mm
Cooking Up a Storm, 2020
Plastic colander, yarn, wool, cables, synthetic materials, cable ties, nylon rope, fabric and bubble wrap
1550mm x 300mm x 300mm
History Book, 2020
Phone directory book, wool, chicken wire, adhesive tape and gold trim
270mm x 210mm x 50mm
Pom-pom Surprise, 2020
Yarn, wool and synthetic hair
250mm x 250mm x 250mm