Wild Materials Craft Lab

This event will have ASL interpretation.

For questions about accessibility or to request accommodations, call 612-375-7564 or email access@walkerart.org.

Shea Maze is an interdisciplinary artist and chef who creates biologically inspired sculptures and multisensory experiences that prioritize materials sourced from the natural world. His practice aims to deconstruct, analyze, capture, and honor the complexity of life while simultaneously combatting an ever-producing society of existential distractions and quick thrills fueled by consumerism. Maze considers the use of natural materials within his art practice as a collaboration with his environment. While his artwork relies on melding techniques found in woodworking, ceramics, natural dyes, and more, the emphasis of these works is the natural beauty that always was. Maze’s organic, interpretative, and abstract forms exaggerate the asymmetrical, perfectly imperfect wonders of the natural world. His practice is an intersection of ancient and modern innovation informed by history. Maze says he’d like to believe that through using his identity and environment as the catalyst for his work, he’s making art more approachable for communities like his own and helping foster connections to our earth in the process.

Chiaki O’Brien is a SAORI weaving artist/teaching artist, Bengala dye artist/teaching artist, and a Taiko performer and instructor who teaches people of all ages and abilities. Since moving to the United States from Japan 11 years ago, she has not only planted SAORI weaving seeds in Minnesota but has also been planting roots for herself here in the Midwest. Working at a Montessori preschool to gain experience allowed her to learn English alongside her pre-schoolers. O’Brien remarks that SAORI, Bengala dye, and Taiko (Japanese drumming) have provided many great opportunities to connect with new people and communities, which brings her great joy.