Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Char Norman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Char with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My parents, especially my mother. She was not only encouraging but a model of efficiency. I’ve always taken satisfaction in finishing a task and that certainly drives my work ethic.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am an environmental fiber artist. I create sculptures with weaving, coiling and paper making; addressing issues with the environment and encouraging reciprocity with nature. Artist Statement:
The idea of Nature as an object of veneration and worship is as old as man. My work speaks of the inter-connectedness of all things with none dominant over the other. As our society and world are facing an environmental crisis which may even lead to our demise it is more important than ever to understand this symbiotic relationship. I present nature in sacred spaces and attitudes to bring understanding and importance to the issues at hand. The iconic pod shape found in much of my work, derives from seedpods and is a metaphor for how we might relate to our natural environment. They are both wombs and shrouds denoting abuse, nurture, mourning, or reverence of nature. My materials and techniques are a direct result of my training in fiber arts, specifically weaving, coiling, and papermaking and have an affinity to the natural objects I incorporate in the work. I have been working with these concepts and techniques for the past decade, with the work slowly evolving over time. Observations are as widespread as forest fungi to Greek myths of nature provide impetus for my pieces. I am now moving in the direction of larger pieces incorporating numerous elements as installations, allowing the viewer to move through the pieces to experience from all angles. In addition, some work will be installed in natural areas such as woodlands and parks, to further encourage the viewer to interact with the physical world.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The ability to see- training the eye to notice the minute as well as the grand vistas in the world. Hand skills and attention to detail are what make my sculptures successful.
Active inquiry-research, curiosity, and on-going interests feed the work.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with a scientist who can bring gravitas to the environmental work I create. In addition indigenous knowledge of plants, and natural elements would be valuable.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.charnorman.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charstegernorman/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/char.norman
