Interview

Written By Adelé Kotzé

Natalie Dunham

Natalie Dunham received her BFA in painting from Birmingham-Southern College, in Birmingham, AL in 2007 and her MFA in sculpture from the Maryland Institute College of Art, in Baltimore, MD in 2010. Dunham's artwork has been collected and exhibited both nationally and internationally. She currently lives and works in the United States, with an additional workspace in Europe.

 

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“I have documentation in my handwriting at age 8 stating, ‘When I grow up, I want to be an artist,’ but that wasn't a nurtured ambition. I entered college as a business major on a soccer scholarship. After my sophomore season, I had my fifth ankle surgery and was forced to retire. Although athletes typically lose their scholarships in these circumstances, the Athletics Director called me into their office and generously offered me a job on campus in lieu of my practice hours. I started as an office assistant in the athletic department and then transferred to the art department to work as an art gallery assistant. I ended up changing my major and graduated with my BFA in painting and went on to get my MFA in sculpture.”

What inspires you?

“At the heart of my studio practice is a desire to challenge viewers to pause and appreciate the transformative powers inherent in the creative process. I believe that art is not merely a finished product but a dynamic journey that unfolds over time, revealing layers of thought, experimentation, and discovery. By emphasizing the process, I draw attention to the often-overlooked ordinary origins that can lead to extraordinary outcomes, highlighting the beauty and potential found in simplicity and repetition. I am inspired in various ways: from patterns, textures, problem solving, found materials, etc.”

What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?

“I am a process-based artist whose work revolves around the creation of 3-dimensional material studies and sketches, primarily composed of basic geometric shapes and lines through the method of accumulation. Each study is meticulously assigned a numerical title, serving as both a record of the materials and processes utilized and a narrative thread that connects the viewer to the evolution of her artistic journey. This systematic approach not only documents my creative exploration but also invites audiences to engage with the work on a deeper level, encouraging them to reflect on the significance of each element within the broader context of artistic creation.”

How would you describe your work?

“My sculptures and installations are 3-dimensional material studies/sketches primarily composed of basic geometric shapes and lines through accumulation.”

Which artists influence you most?

“Eva Hesse and various artists in minimalist art movement.”

“At the heart of my studio practice is a desire to challenge viewers to pause and appreciate the transformative powers inherent in the creative process.”

What is your creative process like?

“My studio practice revolves around experimentation and problem solving. Most of my sculptures and installations are inspired by the materials themselves.”

What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?

“Creativity plays a pivotal role in building a hopeful future by serving as a catalyst for innovation, problem-solving, and personal expression. It empowers individuals and communities to envision new possibilities, challenge existing paradigms, and develop solutions to pressing issues. In a rapidly changing world, creativity fosters resilience and adaptability, allowing us to navigate complexities with a sense of purpose and optimism.”

Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?

“I had numerous museum group exhibitions including at the Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami, Miami FL; at the Museum of New Art, Detroit, MI; at the Attleboro Arts Museum, Attleboro, MA and the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Grand Rapids MI.”

 
Adelé Kotzé
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