We are happy to call Marita Green a local Taranaki artist. She is extremely prolific with her works at KINA whether it be her well known dolls or her new discovery of crochet. She also participated in the 100 day challenge producing 1 doll everyday for 100 days - not to mention taking custom orders for her coveted crochet hand bags, rugs and furniture. Marita's work has no boundaries. She is inventive and creative beyond words and that's why we LOVE her!
The KINA Angels popped over to her home studio to take a peak at her latest works for the upcoming collaborative exhibition at KINA titled 'Grimm'. We are very excited to see everything completed at the opening this Friday night March 7th. We hope to see you all there - it is going to be a show not to be missed.
How long have you been creating? Has it always been in this medium?
Well, all my life really. As an adult since Joseph my first child- it was the reawakening of my child spirit. I finally was able to slow down and tap into myself. And he is 8, so there you go.
I knew I wanted to make dolls. So, I had to learn the skills of clay, which is a very unusual way to learn. Typically you learn the craft and discover what you would want to make after- I did it in reverse. This is fairly typical for ‘outsider artists’. I knew what it was that I wanted to make before I learned how to make it.
Who taught you or how did you learn your craft?
I did. Self taught! I read lots of books, looked at lots of pictures and George Kojis from Wisconsin taught my how to create a pinch pot and Judi Smith from Taupo taught me what she knows about the human face.
If you weren’t creating your art works what would you be doing?
Uh, I’d be bouncing around in a padded cell. Art is very theraputic for me.
Have you passed your techniques onto others?
I absolutely have! Those poor unsuspecting creatures! Mostly to children. I have taught some art classes at my sons school.
Is there a specific piece you have created that is dearest to you heart? If so, why?
No. Never. I don’t become attached. The pieces come and the pieces go.
If you could plan your perfect day what would it consist of from start to finish?
I would hang out with my boys in the morning and make pancakes and drop them off at school. Next I would make dollies in my studio cavern, pick my boys up from school and head to the beach with my man Aaron to play in the sand and sun as a family. We would end the day eating KFC for dinner.
What is your favourite meal and who would prepare it for you?
A bucket’O’chicken prepared by the cornel with all the tasty 12 herbs and spices. I like it easy. No dishes. No cooking in the hot kitchen.
If you were to be an animal which one would you be?
I would be a mad squirrel constantly racing around looking for nuts.
What is your favourite part about KINA NZ Design + Art Space?
The ladies! I love Katie and Luella. Seriously that’s it. They are very committed. They look after every artist not only me.
