providence : september ‘21
September contributor Sydney Matrisciano writes: “Providence is a warm mauve, sourced from an exposed bluff in the Pine Belt of Mississippi at a disturbed road site. It was collected with intention and gratitude to be shared with the Ground Bright community. Providence was washed and filtered of organic material, dried, and ground under the hot Mississippi summer sun with the help of several dear friends. This pigment features in one of the pieces of my first collection as both a clay stain and mulled paint. The term providence refers to protective or careful stewardship, often with a spiritual connotation, but it also refers to a legal classification of political land governance. As you engage with this pigment, I invite you to consider the dual meanings of providence in your own life and in your engagement with land. Reflection and slowed consumption in our interactions with Earth (and each other!) are guiding principles in my relationship with this pigment, and I am honored to share Providence with you today.”
contributor : Sydney Matrisciano
Sydney writes: ‘I’m from Winona, Mississippi, and I’m a rising senior at Northwestern University. Last year, I began working with earth pigments through an undergraduate research grant for interdisciplinary studies. My research combines socio-legal methodology with artistic practice. My work centers traditional techniques in embroidery and photography, combined with natural pigments, to highlight overlooked aspects of a scene. My previous projects have focused on the enduring effects of whiteness in Mississippi landscapes, and feminine archetypes through floral still lifes. You can learn more about my work or reach out directly through my website, samacollective.com, or through @sama_stitches on instagram.’
Photo from Sydney’s instagram account, @sama_stitches
Photo from the Friends of Chakchiuma Swamp website www.friends-of-cs.org
22% donation recipient : Friends of Chakchiuma Swamp
Friends of Chakchiuma Swamp is an organization which supports Mississippi biodiversity through educational outreach in schools and surrounding communities as well as various conservation projects at the Lee Tart Nature Preserve. Additionally, Friends-of-CS supports the vibrant local arts community, including fiber, earth-color, and sculpturally-based artists. More information can be found at their website, www.friends-of-cs.org.