The Newarker Interviews Our Founder
Recently, The Newarker, a local Newark NJ publication interviewed our founder, Samantha Katehis, about her artistic practice. See part of the interview below.
How would you describe your art?
I have a background in fine jewelry making and Industrial Design, so mostly three-dimensional works. Much of my previous jewelry designs were pretty exploratory, ranging in aesthetic, these days I stick to creating hand carved wax pieces that get cast into fine metals. I’ve also designed furniture, textiles, and hand bags.
How has living in Newark inspired you creatively?
I think just being around other forward thinking creative people, who are doing cool shit is inspiring. There’s an energy and attitude here that is rare.
Any idea of what your next projects might be?
I keep pretty busy with my small business, Fern & Fossil. We opened a brick and mortar location this year, so it’s been a challenge to dedicate time to making art. I don’t really make 2D work these days, but I dabbled in linocut printmaking before the pandemic and I’d like to get back into it. It was very intuitive for me, because of the similarity to carving wax. I find lately that I crave more tactile processes because of all the extra screen time I’ve been experiencing over the last year and a half.
Tell us about a show or event that you attended recently that you’d like others to know about.
There aren’t many events that I’ve felt comfortable attending recently, with COVID numbers going up. I did attend the Newark Public Library gala in December. Fern & Fossil donated a gift set for their silent auction. The library has some incredible programming, so I try to do my part to support. I also recently co-hosted a small Plant & Sip event at All Points West Distillery with Fern & Fossil. I love connecting with people through in-person events.