Based in the Triangle, muralist and multidisciplinary artist Gabriel Eng-Goetz builds large-scale pieces rooted in place. In a recent Q&A with RALtoday, he described his creative process:

“It begins with community engagement — asking for feedback from the community in the area that the piece is actually going to be. I’m just a vessel to channel all of the feedback into a piece of art that’s representative of those people and their area.”

He cites nature, identity and culture as essential sources of inspiration:

“A lot of my work is informed by nature… the first 12 years of my life my art was pretty much exclusive to dinosaurs and animals. … I still am [inspired].” 

Raleigh-based fiber artist, musician, gallery owner and “needleprint” innovator, Caitlin Cary works with fabric remnants, re-use ethics and built-environment subject matter. According to an interview on the J. Sanders Studio podcast:

“I create … machine-sewn fabric collage called Needleprint using fabric samples, remnants and scraps that would otherwise be thrown away. I tend to focus on the built environment & I love the way that fabric functions to make the ‘hard’ world softer…

She also runs a gallery space (The Pocket Gallery) in downtown Raleigh to promote local artists
Highlights:

• Blends texture, environment and reuse in her art.

• Embedded in the local creative ecosystem as artist + curator.

• Emphasizes connection between material, place and community voice.