Meet Natalie Baxter | artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Baxter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?

In the past, I haven’t had much of an issue with work life balance. I’m not someone who makes quality work by pulling all nighters in the studio and I rarely worked right up to a deadline. However, since having my first child 3 years ago, I have had to figure out the dance of being an artist and a mother. Now with two children, I’m again figuring out the puzzle that is childcare and studio time. Having the parameter of limited time in the studio has meant making quicker decisions that I once would have overthought, perhaps to my own detriment. I now work more intuitively, which I think is what was needed in my work.

I have also noticed how hobbies have become a complimentary balance to my studio practice. For me, it’s gardening in the summer and baking in the colder months. Like many people, I made sourdough starter during the pandemic and have loved the process of learning how all of the variables affect the outcome of a loaf, and how creating the same thing over and over again can still yield different results. I work similarly in the studio, often creating a series of work that entail producing the same piece again and again until it feels right and recognizing when to move on when the process no longer excites me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

As a visual artist, I spend most of my time in the studio, which is a converted horse barn in my backyard. I work with a variety of mixed media and found objects, but predominantly with fabric to create sculptures and quilted wall hangings. Drawing on knowledge and skills passed down through generations of family quilters, I create approachable work that playfully pushes controversial issues that have become social and political points of division. Conceptually, my work is narrative, pulling inspiration from my lived experience as well as broader observations from society and culture. I reference craft without making it the focal point of the work, using its nostalgic powers, combined with humor, to subvert recognizable objects of americana into something familiar in shape alone.

When I’m not making work in the studio, I am engaging in the less glamorous aspects of being an artist; doing administrative work and answering emails.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There have been so many people, organizations, teachers, mentors and peers who have helped me become the artist I am today. My career would not be possible without the support of my husband, Josh Simpson, who plays the role of my photographer, installer, art handler, and sounding board. It’s difficult to be an artist without the support of fellow artists and art appreciators. I am grateful for having found multiple art communities to engage with.

Website: www.nataliebaxter.com

Instagram: @nattybax

Image Credits
Joshua Simpson Photography