Untangling Threads of Sustainability
In the colorful world of art, few paths are as profoundly personal and environmentally impactful as that of transforming reclaimed fabrics into breathtaking functional artworks. Today, we are thrilled to delve into the life and creative refuge of Shereen Quttaineh whose mastery not only adorns but also conserves the environment, she found her true calling in the textile of discarded materials. During a transformative period amplified by the solitude of the Covid-19 pandemic, she discovered her passion for embroidery and fabric art.
Shereen’s artwork is a vibrant testament to the belief that beauty and utility can coexist harmoniously. Each piece, be it a jacket, pair of earrings, or even a lampshade, is a narrative spun from the very threads of pre-loved fabrics, telling tales of past lives while forging new connections. Through this exclusive interview, she shares her insights into the world of functional art. Join us as we uncover the layers of creativity and consciousness that define Shereen’s unique artistic journey.
Can you share a bit about your journey into the world of art and what initially drew you to work with reclaimed fabrics?
I graduated with a degree in Fine Arts from Yarmouk University and spent a significant part of my career in education. As my children grew up and became more independent, I found myself with more time to focus on my art-making practice. I now spend most of my days getting immersed into the world of art making often transforming my textile art into functional pieces that are accessible to more people.
I’ve always been fascinated by textiles and embroidery from different countries I visit—they ignite a spark within me. However, I didn’t delve into the world of embroidery and textiles until a few years ago when during COVID I had a lot of time and a few resources available to me and decided to pick up thread, needle, and fabric and explore.
It felt natural to use scraps of reclaimed fabrics and plastics; after all, why not reuse what we already have? The potential in these found fabrics and the possibilities they hold made the process incredibly exciting, like delving into a treasure box without knowing what you’ll find next or what you can do with them!
What is functional art?
Functional art merges utility with creativity by transforming everyday objects into unique pieces. I treat each piece I create like I would an artwork. However, Instead of being static, these pieces are designed to be loved, enjoyed, and used. When clients acquire one of my jackets, earrings, or lampshades, for example, they receive something truly unique. For instance, the earrings are deconstructed textile collages, meaning each person owns a part of a larger artwork. This uniqueness guarantees that every piece is one-of-a-kind, offering a blend of artistic expression and functionality in everyday life.
What is the message that you aim to convey through your functional art pieces?
I want to show the beauty and potential of reusing and repurposing materials. Each piece has its own story of transformation and the personal narratives of those who owned the fabrics before. By using reclaimed fabrics and materials, I hope to inspire others to see the artistic possibilities in everyday items and appreciate the uniqueness that comes from giving new life to things that might otherwise be discarded. My work is all about celebrating individuality, craftsmanship, and mindful consumption, encouraging a deeper connection to the objects we use every day. As I invest time and passion into composing these pieces, I’m driven by a sense of flow and purpose. Seeing someone cherish and proudly wear one of my creations not only brings me joy but also reinforces the importance of sustainability in art and everyday life.
Could you walk us through your process of selecting and transforming reclaimed fabrics into art? What qualities do you look for in the materials you use?
Selecting and transforming reclaimed fabrics into art is a process that I absolutely love. It begins with sourcing materials, which can be anything from old clothes and textiles to discarded fabric scraps or even plastic bags. I look for materials that have interesting textures, patterns, and colors. The more unique and vibrant, the better!
Once I have a collection of materials, I start to visualize how they can come together. I lay out the fabrics, experiment with different combinations, and see what inspires me. I’m drawn to pieces that have a story or history, as they add depth and character to the final piece.
Next, I clean and prepare the fabrics, making sure they’re ready to be transformed. I often cut, stitch, and layer them, adding hand-embroidered details, and creating new textures and patterns. This part of the process is very hands-on and intuitive, allowing me to get lost in the creative flow.
Throughout the creation process, I focus on how each piece can be both functional and beautiful. Whatever I’m working on I want the final piece to be something that not only looks good but also serves a practical purpose.
How does sustainability play a role in your art? What are some challenges you face when working with reclaimed materials?
By using reclaimed materials, I’m able to reduce waste and give new life to items that might otherwise end up in a landfill. This approach not only helps the environment but also adds a unique character and story to each piece I create. I believe that art should not only be beautiful but also have a positive impact on the world. I try my best to use every single bit of scrap I have, which often ends up as stuffing for the Christmas ornaments.
I’ve carefully considered packaging, opting for simplicity and sustainability. I utilize locally made tote bags and then block print the logo on them. Old boxes are repurposed for certain packaging components, and the insert card is crafted from recycled paper embedded with seeds, sourced locally from Nafin, a charming small business.
Working with reclaimed materials comes with its own set of challenges. One of the main difficulties is sorting and storing the materials. Since I’m using what is available, I often hunt through my boxes for fabrics for the project I’m working on. This can be time-consuming and unpredictable. The more material I have the more challenging the whole process is becoming! I also must test the scraps I have, to make sure they don’t bleed when washed for example. So, it takes time usually to make sure the scraps are suitable for the project I’m working on.
Despite these challenges, the rewards of creating sustainable, unique pieces far outweigh the difficulties. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work contributes to a more sustainable world while offering something beautiful and meaningful to my clients.
What has been the most challenging project you’ve undertaken so far, and what did you learn from it?
The projects I find most challenging typically involve commissioned work. Transitioning from the mindset of an artist to align with the client’s preferences can be quite demanding. It can feel somewhat limiting, especially when clients have a distinct vision, and you’re tasked with bringing it to life from their perspective. However, there are moments when collaborating with certain clients sparks fresh ideas, turning the process into a creative exchange.
Have you collaborated with other artists or organizations in your art-making process? How have these collaborations influenced your work?
I love collaborations! Teaming up with artist Nour Taher for the ‘Subhiyeh’ exhibition’s artwork collection has been incredibly rewarding. Working alongside someone with whom you can freely exchange ideas, allowing each conversation to spark new avenues of creativity and thought, has inspired fresh ideas and approaches to making. This collaboration has influenced my ‘Still Life’ Collection, where aspects of the artwork’s subject matter and techniques were transferred to the functional pieces.
Are there any new projects or directions you are excited to explore in your upcoming works?
There’s so much I’m eager to delve into within both my artmaking practice and my functional art pieces. Currently, I’m immersed in exploring various methods of blending my textile works with silver. I’m drawn to the juxtaposition of something precious with unconventional or repurposed materials.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to incorporate sustainability into their work?
My advice is to first explore the potential of existing unwanted materials and objects. Rather than immediately purchasing new supplies, utilize what’s readily available. This fosters innovation and pushes artistic boundaries. Additionally, setting limitations can spur creativity. Even small steps towards sustainability contribute to a more responsible and eco-friendly future.
Your pieces are available online—how has the digital space shaped the way you reach your audience and sell your work?
Being able to showcase my work in the digital space has been instrumental in getting my art out into the world. Starting out this way has made my art much more accessible. It’s remarkable how it enables artists and makers to reach both local and global audiences. Additionally, it allows me to make my process and the stories behind the pieces and collections visible. However, I find that connecting with clients in person, engaging in conversations, and understanding their perspectives not only helps me identify my clientele but also acts as an inspiration to continue creating. My work is also available at Rumman Collective, a beautiful space full of character.
