Esther Costa

Painter

 

From memory, what was the first thing you made with your hands?

I grew up in England’s north where inclement weather often meant indoor activities. My innovative parents always provided materials and support for my brothers and me to draw, paint, sew, weave and build. My hands were often engaged in my love of drawing but the outdoors beckoned the tomboy in me to build snowmen or elaborate effigies of ‘Guy Fawkes’ for the bonfire. One of the first things I probably made was a daisy chain of the delicate pink and white English daisies which grew in the lawn.

What are you making with your hands right now?

I am crushing locally sourced ochre stones using a hard stone tool. This traditional ‘hands on’ activity produces textured pigments for my paintings and mixed media works. I love the variety of ochre shades available in nature, from almost white through the yellows to rich golden browns. The historical significance of ochre is beautifully documented in Victoria Finlay’s book, Colour – Travels through the paintbox.

Why is the art of handmade so important?

I’m always inspired by the sheer diversity of works by others. During my creative process I find it empowering to understand that each of us is unique and contributes in an original way. This validates my own freedom of expression as I explore and translate my core experiences and new ideas. Through the art of handmade we come to know ourselves.

Photographs courtesy of Esther Costa.
Esther can be contacted via Splinter Contemporary Artists.

See more of Esther's work at Splinter Contemporary Artists on Facebook.

Spread the word! Please recommend our blog and share our Facebook updates

 

Twitter: @_c_r_a_f_t_ and @Fed_Square

Instagram: @craftvictoria

Hashtags: #craftcubed #craftvictoria