Samantha Nachlas

Symbiosis is the interaction and mutual relationship between organisms that live or grow near each other. Similarly to the small organisms studied by microbiologists, human beings thrive through community building and mutual relationships of those who live in close proximity. My current clay works comment on parallels between detailed growth patterns in small organisms and the philosophical and emotional growth of human beings, both of which often occur without notice or reflection. Through exploratory research, my work” looks at different forms of oceanic and vegetative growth. Each form uses repetition, movement, color, and texture, to bring about a sense of contemplation. The bright colors are intentionally contrasted against the simple white forms to juxtapose the ways in which these forms grow in the natural world. They contain a great deal of detail and definition but are often overlooked and passed by as we go about our busy daily lives. Each piece brings attention to earth’s daily growths that often go unnoticed, such as a group of polyps building up into a coral reef, or a small seed growing into spreading foliage. By focusing on non-emotional and non-human areas of growth as a subject matter, “Symbiosis” works to explore the emotional and often messy philosophies surrounding human growth and what it means to be human.


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