Entropy, hand embroidery on muslin hoops, 10 in.
Untitled, hand embroidery on muslin hoops, 10 in.
Virgo in Waves, hand embroidery on muslin in hoops, 8 in.
TRISHALA KALE | INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Q. How did your passion for art begin taking shape for you — at home, school, a mentor, and other artists who inspired you, or a personal experience that stated fermenting in the process?
A. It was really a mixture of all those, to an extent. I was lucky enough to have a supportive family who encouraged me to pursue my artistic goals. Mentors helped me build skills and inspired me to keep making. I had a fairly close knit group of friends with similar goals and we learned from each other and encouraged each other.
Q. How would you describe your artwork, in terms of materials or mediums? Has it changed or evolved since formal training and what are your goals for it?
A. My art work uses fiber based materials and a traditionally craft based skill set. I had never started out using these techniques, and when I started a more formal training, I was introduced to the prospect of fibers art. I don’t think I have any goals for this medium, I simply enjoy using these materials.
Q. How important is a personal style to you as an artist or does your work reflect larger social and cultural issues?
A. I think each artist has a style and an aesthetic that they follow. I think mine is important to me because it has a certain personality to it that only I can make. Each artist may feel beholden to follow their personal style, but not all do. My work (so far) hasn’t commented on any larger social or cultural issues.
Q. Has being a woman affected your work and others’ perception of it?
A. Oh, I think being a woman and a fibers artist definitely affects others’ perception of my work. I think from my work, without knowing who I am, people can tell I am a woman artist.
Q. How do you feel about being part of a women’s art organization?
A. I think it’s especially empowering in a male dominated art world to be part of an organization that celebrates art made by women.
