Sophia Cai, a Melbourne-based curator and writer, put together a show I loved at 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art. A Soft Touch delved into the paradox of contemporary artists whose works were 'soft', being textiles, but who nonetheless were engaging with steelier subjects such as empowerment and resistance. Favourites of mine included the Ema Shin beaded hearts, being sparkly and yet so detailed as to be devastating (the meaning of Ema's hearts is even more devastating). and the Anney Bounpraseuth mural of salvaged fabrics which was full of energy and so damn cool (Anney has also answered my 5 Creative Questions; her interview is here).
Sophia's next project doesn't seem to have much in common with a show of textile art brimming with fire and indignation. It's a book, one that celebrates miniature ceramics. Given my tiny collection of tiny Korean ceramics, including the most-mini moon jar, I'm sure it's my kind of book. The cover of Clayful: the big world of tiny ceramics, is making me want to find and/or handcraft some miniatures, perhaps for my refurbished dollhouse,
Sophia with Rosie and Rocket. Photo by Garry Trinh for Creative Australia
Sophia Cai is the 38th in my series of creatives to take five questions.
When my creative process is stuck, I reach for... my knitting needles, or patting my greyhounds.
The weirdest thing about being a creative human is... trying to manage multiple ideas at once while trying to operate as a functional human.
I have to thank my Notions board and countless spreadsheets to keep me on track.
The most unusual object in my house is... I don't know if this is unusual, but I have an extensive collection of BTS merchandise.
I celebrate my achievements by... enjoying a nice shared meal with friends. KBBQ is a favourite.
Something in the world that already exists that I wish I had created is... this doesn't yet exist, but I would love some anti-fog glasses.
Find out more about Sophia Cai on her website Sophia Cai and follow her on Instagram Sophia Cai 蔡晨昕 (@sophiatron) • Instagram photos and videos. Clayful: the big world of tiny ceramics by Sophia Cai is available for pre-order here (until 1 August, ahead of a September 2024 publication date): Clayful: the big world of tiny ceramics [PRE-ORDER & FREE GIFT] | Sophia Cai (bigcartel.com).
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