ARTIST STATEMENT
The idea of spending time with something, whether it be a person, a material, an idea or something else has grown to be the center of my work. My work takes the form of paintings, quilts, and other kinds of fiber art. I feel loyal to an attentiveness to the handmade. My interests in science and nature are often reflected in my work. I make work about the natural world simply because I love it and I am fascinated by the lives in it, and see us as part of it. I see my art as an entry point for people less acquainted with these interests. My quilted work sometimes includes scientific images, sometimes not; I see a value in creating a soft, warm space for another person. I’m interested in intimacy and enjoy this act of sharing and creating connection. Handwork is a large part of my process as a form of meditation, and I find repetition particularly important as a way to spend time with these observations and warm blankets.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Sami Mark is an artist from the Chicago suburbs. A recent graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, they are interested in the beauty of small things. As a little kid they often took part in nature camp programs which has led to a lifelong love of their local forest preserves and the things that can be found growing inside. Their art is often inspired by these natural forms. When they aren’t making art they enjoy hiking and foraging for fungi.
© Sami Mark