Katherine Frensley

I have always had a connection and love for nature, whether through observation, maintaining it through my garden, using natural materials in my art, capturing it through photography, or just being outside often. I discovered a love for natural dyes and found that the physical participation, constant changing of my environment, the chemical development and processes, and the extensive utility of a single dye captured my attention. I found satisfaction in discovering what the combination of materials and dyes was capable of, extracting brilliant colors from unsuspecting sources.

I incorporate weaving, tufting, quilting, painting, photography, and printmaking techniques as vessels for my research and experimentation with nature. Many of my pieces take on familiar and unfamiliar organic forms and patterns vulnerable to their newly introduced environment. At the same time, I also focus on acknowledging the use and sourcing of recycled and natural materials as ethically as possible. By reusing, recycling, growing, and harvesting what I can for my pieces, I am aware of the ever-growing commercial and chemical waste, directing some of that attention to my ability to make art from biodegradable, compostable, non-toxic, and natural matter. This is my subtle attempt to preserve the planet further, connect with these processes' history, and create fascinating pieces while reflecting on the beauty I find in nature and the joy I experience in their creation. When presenting these pieces, I strive for the audience to appreciate the colors, textures, patterns, and materials inspired by nature and question their beauty and relevance.