Katie Shapiro

How did you get into making art?

I first took a darkroom photography class in middle school and have been forever hooked on photography since. I explored ceramic, painting, making jewelry and just about every other medium but kept coming back to photography.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on a project about motherhood using the moon as a metaphor for the unconscious with bits of images of my kids. I’m inspired by Carl Jung’s ideas about the shadow self and am interested in exploring that in my work.

What inspired you to get started on this body of work?

I wanted to get more personal in my work so I was driven to make work about my experience of becoming a mother. I have two kids ages 7 and 8 and I’ve profoundly changed as a result of becoming a parent in the best ways possible.

Do you work on distinct projects or do you take a broader approach to your practice?

My broader practice explores the underbelly and unconscious elements of our inner landscapes. While I work across individual projects, they are all connected by an interest in the unknown and in finding ways to express what is difficult to see, articulate, or fully understand through photography.

What’s a typical day like in your studio?

I do some computer work, I put together sculptures, maybe apply to a grant or an application.

Who are your favorite artists?

Agnes Martin, Helen Frankenthaler, Olafur Eliasson, James Turrell

Where do you go to discover new artists?

Usually by visiting a museum or gallery.