Soil Archive

A living Soil Pigment Research Archive

This project investigates the cultural, ecological, and historical dimensions of earth pigments and natural dye practices in Southern Africa and the U.S. Midwest. Through research, experimentation, and community engagement, it aims to create a living digital archive documenting connections between materials, craft practices, and cultural knowledge. The archive explores: Relationships between pigment materials and craft traditions across regions. Sustainable, land-based storytelling and craft practices welcomes participatory approaches engaging artists, makers, and local communities. Current Status: Research and documentation are ongoing. This page will expand as the archive develops and new insights emerge. The project aims to advance underrepresented craft histories while fostering cross-regional connections and material-based scholarship.

Transnational Fieldwork: Observations and Materials

Red earth in Clanwilliam, SOUTH AFRICA, 2025
Soils transformed into soil paint. Taken in Point Reyes, CALIFORNIA 2023
Pictured at the Sevilla Rock Art Trail is in the Cederberg region of SOUTH AFRICA, 2025
Cradle of Humanking, Sterkfontein Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, SOUTH AFRICA. 2025
Soils near Kalaloch Beach. WASHINTON, 2024
Soil Pigment processing using a muller and a glass slab. Taken at Chop Wood Carry Water residency, driftless region, Wisconsin, 2025
Soil case study near Lake Michigan, Chicago, ILLINOIS 2024 - 2025
Field notes, Forest preserve, ILLINOIS, 2024