Katy Cottrell
The Realm of Intricate Inlays: A Marquetry Practice of Sustainability, Education and Community
Marquetry is in decline both in Aotearoa and globally, with the pool of practitioners very limited and ageing. Research of the craft's techniques, methods, and materiality is limited in a contemporary context and is poorly documented, therefore leaving an opportunity to expand on this knowledge. Practitioners are questioning the reason for the craft's decline, but no research is being undertaken to address this issue.
Through creative led practice I will expand and explore the craft’s methods, techniques, technology and materiality. This research provides an opportunity to make marquetry more sustainable through exploration of native materials from Aotearoa, whilst adhering to tikanga, kaitiakitanga, and an opportunity to share knowledge. Potential methods include kinship within harvesting. Knowledge from the small number of practitioners in Aotearoa and the Marquetry Society will be documented to help create a community of practice within Aotearoa and globally, to help slow the decline. As a practitioner this is a passion of mine and an area I have already contributed to through workshops and online laser cut marquetry lessons. Contemporary and traditional marquetry techniques, modern technologies and processes, and aesthetic styles will be explored in an attempt to make it more relatable, foster growth and build momentum of uptake.
As a young female marquetry practitioner in Aotearoa it’s a lonely space, and one that needs a community to support this limited pool of marquetrists. It’s a craft that deserves to be preserved due to its significant value around the educational properties of natural materials and wood species and as an aesthetic method. Through creative led practice I aim to create a community for succession, initiate sustainable marquetry methods, and share my knowledge of contemporary marquetry so that people know what it is and can enjoy it
Supervisors
Awards and Achievements
Toi Pōneke exhibitions 2020 and 2025
Pataka exhibition 2021
Zealandia exhibitions 2021 and 2023
Qualifications
Master of Fine Arts with Design Endorsement (Distinction)
PGCE in Secondary Technology
BA Hons in Graphic Design