I am an Interdisciplinary artist, primarily exploring glass and tile, as well as felting and paint. Characterized by bold color interactions with an emphasis on form and shape, I explore storytelling and spirituality through a playful, experimental lens. Expanding my knowledge of materials and techniques allows me to fully explore without boundaries. Each material I introduce begins a conversation within the piece. The work itself is an ecosystem of balance and energy. As the artist, I am an observer. When I’m in my element, the piece creates itself.
Working with naturally sourced and collected materials is a reminder that I am collaborating with something beyond myself. I worship the divinity of earth and life through rolling and washing felt, collecting and conserving beautiful tiles and stones, and decorating raw surfaces with pigment. I am fascinated by the connective consciousness of the natural world and the dormant power it holds. The history, mystery, and mythology of nature holds a world of information that drives my work. This source of inspiration can be seen in my use of organic forms and materials, as well as mystical concepts.
Since discovering my grandmother Patricia’s memoir writings, I’ve uncovered an ancestral connection to craft and storytelling. My great-grandmother painted the rapture on her closet walls, Grandma Ann made porcelain dolls, and Grandma Judith wove intricate tapestries. My aunts created paintings that move me to tears and sculptures that disrupt. My great aunt once showed me a secret room in her house covered wall-to-wall with hand-sewn, imaginary creatures. These practices are the highest form of art-making in my eyes. The idea of being “crafty” is looked down upon in a patriarchal art world. Ornamentation and joyful creation are profound protests against machismo ideals of art, which makes the continuation of this art form all the more important. A long line of powerful femmes in my family have gifted me their skills and stories, and I aim to honor them through my work.
Greta Olson (They/She) is a 21 year old interdisciplinary artist from Chicago, Illinois. Inspired by the rich art history of their home city, Greta began studying the arts at the age of 16 and started working professionally as a mosaic artist. Following their graduation from Oak Park and River Forest High school, Greta began their education at Maryland Institute College of Art where they currently study General Fine Arts and continue working as a glass and ceramic mosaicist. They incorporates their knowledge of fibers, painting, animation, and large scale installation to explore the magic of nature and spiritual experiences.
