"...I don’t always know exactly what I am creating – it is like making a puzzle when you don’t know what the picture is."
Saira Grube
How does your work interact with the theme of “A Generous Kingdom V: art that explores story, symbolism, and beyond”?
Most of my recent work involves curious kingdoms of various sorts (odd and unlikely homes, dilapidated dwellings, ancient ruins, etc.). Being home during the shelter in place time made me want to create interesting dream like places to visit, if only in my imagination.
Does the idea of transformation influence your work and process?
My work involves a lot of transformation. It is constant changing and I don’t always know exactly what I am creating – it is like making a puzzle when you don’t know what the picture is. I find that this is rather like my life now during the pandemic.
What draws you to the medium you choose?
When the shelter in place started and my work stopped for a while, I decided to head out to my studio and start making things. I have a degree in ceramic sculpture but I didn’t have clay on hand, so I used what I had. (Ink, paint, magazines, and canvas). When I made ceramic sculpture, I would draw the piece first and then make what I drew. When I am making these pieces I rip out all sorts of textures and images that I find appealing for whatever reason. I try not to question what I am drawn to and why. I start a layout and as I work, my piece evolves and transforms rapidly. Sometimes the images work together and sometimes they don’t and I end up covering lots of things up. I use translucent inks and acrylic paint in subtle washes that layer and blend images together.