Justine

I draw inspiration from a life shaped by diverse landscapes, cultural encounters, and a reverence for the natural world. Born near Disneyland, my earliest memories are of fireworks and Tinkerbell, igniting a sense of wonder that has stayed with me throughout my creative journey. At ten, we moved to Santa Rosa, California, where the vast night sky and towering Redwoods introduced me to nature’s quiet spectacle.

My studies in Theatre Arts at San Francisco State University led me to Japanese art and design, particularly the poetic subtleties of indigo textiles. Immersing myself in traditional techniques like yuzen, shibori, and roketsuzome under a master artisan in Japan was transformative, deepening my appreciation for the interplay of tradition, craft, and narrative.

In Hong Kong, the tropical light and cacophony of the city infused my work with bold abstraction and vibrant colour. Later, the muted tones of London and Wales, with their weathered surfaces and subdued palette, brought an appreciation for textures shaped by time. These environments sharpened my focus on nature's fragility—trees, rivers, sea and skies becoming central themes in my practice.

My process involves making non-toxic fermentation indigo vats based on centuries-old recipes, as well as using natural dyes and pigments derived from plants and earth. Working on washi, wool, and silk, I contrast these organic materials with industrial elements like cast iron, steel, and concrete. This tension between light and ephemeral forms versus heavy industrial structures creates a dialogue that resonates with my experiences and emotions.

Through my work, I seek to explore the delicate balance between human-made and natural worlds, crafting visual stories that reflect both fragility and resilience